Islamabad: The Australian High Commissioner, Neil Hawkins, launched a unique bus art initiative today, celebrating 40 years of agricultural cooperation between Australia and Pakistan. The initiative, in collaboration with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), features artwork aimed at promoting water conservation and sustainable farming practices.
Renowned Pakistani cartoonist and Australian alumnus Nigar Nazar created the bus art, which will be displayed on public buses across Punjab. The illustrations emphasize simple practices to save water and improve food security, reflecting the joint efforts of Australia and Pakistan in addressing climate change and enhancing agriculture.
High Commissioner Hawkins highlighted that Australia has been a steadfast partner in Pakistan’s agricultural development for the past four decades. He emphasized the innovative use of creativity, such as the bus art initiative, to raise public awareness and inspire action in both rural and urban areas of Punjab.
ACIAR CEO, Professor Wendy Umberger, praised the strong ties between Australian and Pakistani agricultural experts, farmers, and policymakers. She noted that the cooperation has greatly contributed to improving food security, developing sustainable farming methods, and uplifting rural communities in Pakistan.
The bus art project will cover key agricultural regions in Punjab, spreading vital messages about water conservation to thousands of commuters. Nigar Nazar, who received the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz in 2023, brings her artistic talent to this important initiative, helping bridge the gap between awareness and action.
