KARACHI: "You can learn from your failures; therefore, you should not fear them. Establish your objectives and persist in achieving them, " Samina Baig recounted her trek to K2 during the Beyond the Shelves lecture series at the Aga Khan University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences Library.
In July this year, Samina became the first Pakistani woman to climb K2. Samina addressed a crowded audience of students, instructors, and staff, including young Aga Khan Higher Secondary School pupils. Dr Fozia Parveen, Assistant Professor at AKU's Institute for Educational Development, moderated the discussion.
Samina described her past ascents of the seven tallest mountains on each of the seven continents and the problems she faced since each terrain was distinct. She presented her remarkable climbing career, which began early in her home Shimshal Valley in Hunza Gojal, Gilgit-Baltistan. Samina was joined on several trips by her brother Mirza Baig, her trainer and guide.
Samina's maiden journey to K2 was in 2015. However, she could not reach the summit due to an injury sustained while climbing. She maintained optimism and continued her training, and on July 22, 2022, she reached the top of K2, the second-highest peak in the world.
Samina stated that climbing needs a tremendous amount of devotion, enthusiasm, and motivation. "It is a life or death situation. It is impossible to endure living away from home for months in harsh weather circumstances if one is not emotionally and physically strong. Never lose hope and keep your purpose in mind at all times," She stated. Samina is a staunch champion for gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Vice Provost and Founding Dean of FAS, Dr Anjum Halai, addressed the audience that this was the first in a series of activities in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Library.
This new library features more than reference materials. It is a centre for intellectual discourse, action, and contemplation.
She recited a poem from Iqbal's poetry describing the young as a Shaheen (falcon) that flies high to attain achievement, and now we have such a Shaheen among us: Samina Baig, a role model for everybody.