ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a seminar on Saturday called for increased efforts to provide learning opportunities to the country’s most underserved communities.

Speaking at the thirtieth anniversary of Strengthening Participatory Organisation (SPO), one of Pakistan’s leading development organisations, they stressed that access to education and the right tools are essential for fostering long-term development and meaningful change.

Javed Jabbar, a former senator and co-founder and chairperson of SPO said: “We have always believed that true progress comes from empowering people with the knowledge and tools to shape their own futures.”

He said SPO’s 30-year journey was a testament to the power of civic engagement and grassroots development, and the completion of 30 years is not just a celebration of the past but a reaffirmation of our commitment to the future - one that is socially just, ecologically responsible, and rooted in participatory governance.”

The event in Islamabad brought together key development leaders, partners, and change-makers who have played a pivotal role in shaping SPO’s journey. The celebration featured a documentary screening highlighting SPO’s three-decade journey, participated in discussion forums with development sector experts, and witnessed the presentation of the Resilience Awards to individuals demonstrating extraordinary commitment to climate action and social development.

SPO Chief Executive Arifa Mazhar said on the occasion that “being an implementing as well as a management organisation, SPO has implemented several impactful projects. Beyond programme execution, SPO plays a crucial role in strategic oversight and planning, ensuring that all initiatives align with its broader mission and development goals, she said.

With 423 successfully implemented projects, partnerships with over 106 funding organisations, and direct engagement with over 4,000 community-based organisations, SPO has positively impacted the lives of more than 20 million individuals, particularly women, children, ethnic and religious minorities, and differently-abled people.

OGDCL CEOAhmed Hayat Lak while speaking on the occasion said that at OGDCL, “we believe in empowering communities through sustainable initiatives, and SPO’s dedication to social development aligns perfectly with our mission.” “Through collaborations like the ‘Saibaan’ project, we aim to create lasting change for those who need it most. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership and supporting SPO in its mission for a more inclusive and sustainable Pakistan,” he said.

A former managing director of Sindh Education Foundation (SEF), Abdul Kabir Kazi said: “Education is the foundation of sustainable development, and SPO has played a crucial role in ensuring that learning opportunities reach the most underserved communities.

Over the years, SPO has not only facilitated access to education but has also promoted a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. It has been a privilege to witness their unwavering commitment to social progress, he said and hoped that SPO will continue to perform its extraordinary work with growing impact.

Other prominent speakers included Tariq Banuri co-founder and first chairperson of SPO and Mahnaz Fareed Sheikh, vice chairperson of the board of directors of SPO, and other partners and stakeholders.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2025