Islamabad: A delegation of Vice Chancellors of all Public Sector Universities (PSUs) of Balochistan, including Vice Chancellor University of Gwadar Prof. Dr. Abdul Razzaq Sabir (TI), for the signing of a Letter of Agreement (LoA) with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), visited of PMDA main office in Islamabad on 1st Jan 2026. The LoA aims to strengthen collaboration in the field of disaster risk reduction and management through joint initiatives, including research, capacity-building training programs, student internships, and field-based activities, with particular emphasis on disaster risks specific to the diverse geographical terrains of Balochistan. Under the agreement, NDMA Hubs and Centers of Excellence will be established at each participating university to promote applied research, enhance preparedness and response capacities, and develop skilled human resources for effective disaster management at local, provincial, and national levels. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellors stated that “Balochistan in general and areas of their respective Universities have unique and complex disaster risks due to the vast and diverse terrain. This collaboration with NDMA will enable the role of universities to contribute meaningfully through research, innovation, and human capital development, ensuring that disaster risk management solutions are locally relevant, evidence-based, and sustainable. Air Commodore Tanvir Paracha, Executive Director NDMA, while highlighting the significance of academic partnerships, remarked that “Engaging universities as strategic partners is central to NDMA’s vision of strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience. The establishment of NDMA Hubs and Centers of Excellence in the universities in Balochistan will support evidence-based policymaking, enhance technical capacity, and help develop a new generation of professionals equipped to address evolving disaster risks.” The initiative reflects NDMA’s continued commitment to fostering strong linkages with academia for advancing knowledge-driven disaster risk reduction strategies and building resilient communities across Pakistan.