ZHOB: Hundreds of needy and deserving families received ration bags containing essential food items amid the prevailing lockdown in the province here in different rural parts of the district. HDF team in the supervision of Team Leader HDF Naeem Gul Mandokhail, distributed rations among needy and daily-wage workers, who have been rendered jobless in the wake of the lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. “The team distributed ration among 350 deserving families in this time of trial in different villages including Takkei, Sangay Ghar, Hussainzai, Sheikhan, Wyala and Deragei. The ration packages contained flour, ghee, sugar, tea, rice, pulses and rice. “We will defeat coronavirus at every cost as the morale of nation is high against Covid-19 pandemic. Ration packages distributed fairly without any discrimination,” adding it was HDF prime priority to support those who were deprived of any assistance and support them during the lockdown. Human Development Foundation has been struggling for over a decade for social mobilization, health, education and for the improvement of peoples’ living standards in the poverty-stricken parts of the country. BEGGERS: As Eid is just around the corner, the beggars having a roaring business mostly women and children adopting different tactics are seen roaming in the streets of the city. The beggars cause inconvenience to people visiting bazaars for Eid shopping. They can be seen roaming freely and minting money in all parts of the city despite lockdown, but effective action against them is yet to be taken. Beggar women carrying infants in their laps, aged men and children exhibiting different disabilities to win people’s sympathies and get alms from dawn to dusk in the city.

ISLAMKOT: With an aim to empower Thari women and promote girls’ education and bio-saline agriculture in selected areas of district Tharparkar, Thar Foundation, and Human Development Foundation (HDF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Under the MoU, Thari women shall be trained to operate drinking water RO Plants and provide transport to promote girls’ education and make grants to poor farmers to install solar submersible pumps. Thar Foundation is a non-profit organization and a subsidiary of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) while Human Development Foundation (HDF) is a renowned social-development organization. Together, Thar Foundation and HDF will launch a series of resourceful initiatives to ensure a better quality of life in the impoverished Thar region, while also improving access to school education for children, especially girls. HDF will begin with the provision of two school vans for students, especially girls of numerous schools being operated by the Thar Foundation. These school vans have been purpose-built and fitted with special equipment, to ensure the safety of the students. This philanthropic program will also enable a family to graduate out of poverty while providing girls with sustainable access to school. This program is being rolled out according to a self-sustained, social-entrepreneurial model, and there will be no continued financial expenses or additional costs, after the initial social investment. Over the next phase interventions in the areas of agricultural livelihoods and water-sector are also planned. Under the agricultural efforts, TF and HDF will provide solar submersible pumps to local farmers, enabling them to practice bio-saline agriculture at the community level. Thar Foundation will support and share its institutional expertise as well. Under the agreement, HDF will also be adopting Reverse-Osmosis (RO) plants in areas of Dali and Chachro in collaboration with the District Government. Whilst HDF will be responsible for operations and maintenance of the plants, TF will use its technical expertise to empower and train the local women to operate these RO Plants. While signing MoU Suhail Awan, CEO, Human Development Foundation emphasized, “For 24 years, HDF has worked tirelessly to eradicate poverty with a fully focused approach to health, education, livelihood, and clean environment. Together with TF, we are confident that we will make a positive difference in the lives of people of Thar.” Syed Abul Fazal Rizvi, Chief Executive Officer, Thar Foundation stated “We are pleased to work in cohesion with a credible institution like HDF, to improve the standard of living for the deprived communities of Thar. We remain committed to enhancing our social footprint in Thar and the communities to ensure that they have equitable access to socio-economic opportunities.” In the future, he added, Thar Foundation and HDF also plan to expand the scale and scope of these interventions, for building capacity and deploying meaningful interventions in Thar

July 5th, 2023: Human Development Foundation (HDF) and CIHEAM Bari joined forces by signing a Letter of Understanding (LOU). This collaboration aims to actualize HDF's visionary plan of establishing a climate-resilient olive plantation in Soon Valley, District Khushab, Punjab. CIHEAM Bari, a renowned Italian research institute, will act as our esteemed technical partner, providing us support and expert guidance in selecting suitable areas for olive cultivation, choosing optimal olive varieties, providing comprehensive training to farmers, and empowering women and youth through income-generating activities. By combining our efforts, we are committed to turning climate-smart ventures into tangible realities, thereby nurturing a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

 

HDF organized a three-day Annual Pre-Planning Conference between 15-17 July 2021 at Shangrila Hotel & Resort, Changla Gali. The pre-planning conference aimed to identify the range of issues and needs that have already been articulated for HDF, obtain team input on the direction and scope of the planning process, and develop a scope of work that responded to the range of issues that were raised. Seventy-three key team members from nine regions came together to review previous year’s highlights and to have an informal preliminary discussion on how to strategically plan for the next years and to avoid or mitigate any potential red flags that might stand in the way of a successful future.

 

HDF CEO Suhail Awan and Thar Foundation GM CSR Naseer Memon signed a MoU to train Thari Women to operate RO Plants, resolve issue of girls access to school, install solar submersible pumps and promote agriculture bio saline areas.

 

Access to finance is critical lynchpin to economic growth and poverty alleviation. To propel agriculture growth, we've partnered with Pak Oman Microfinance Bank Limited (POMFB) and under this Microfinance Outreach Partnership, our Social Mobilization Teams in 55 Tehsils of Punjab, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are helping farmers, connect with POMFB.

A Cheque Distribution Ceremony was held by HDF, Lahore in partnership with POMFB. The ceremony took place in the presence of CEO HDF Suhail Awan and COO POMFB Chamika Wijewarnasooriya along with some other representatives from both the organizations. Cheques worth of PKR 1.5 million were disbursed among three recipients from District Gujranwala and District Jaranwala. The ceremony concluded with a cross-questioning session, where both Mr. Suhail and Mr. Chamika discussed agriculture related issues and further enhancement of agriculture financing budget with the attendees.

The addendum signing ceremony of “Nazar 2020” program took place at Head Office, Islamabad on the 16th of June. HDF decided to establish a restricted endowment for a donation of PKR 10 million for the program. Saqlain Khan, a philanthropist behind “Nazar 2020” program, spoke about his plans for the initiative with the CEO and HDF team. After both the parties signed and exchanged the addendum of MoU, Mr. Saqlain presented cheques worth PKR 10 million as donation to the cause. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the donor.

A Tribute to the Champion of HDF: Malik Khair Muhammad

“Eyes are a precious gift from God and I might have lost mine if the Nazar 20/20 team hadn't detected my vision problem in time. HDF has done a great service to children like me and I am immensely grateful.”

Grappling with poor eyesight since childhood, Atooba Shahzad, a 14-year-old student at the HDF Secondary School in Ainu Bhatti, Lahore, could never afford a visit to an eye specialist due to her family’s humble background. Her weakening eyesight had started affecting her studies and causing her frequent headaches until the Nazar 20/20 team, as part of HDF’s initiative, arrived at the school to conduct eye check-ups for all the students in 2019. These screenings shed light on many students suffering from vision impairment, startling the school staff, the parents and even many of the children themselves who had been unaware of these eye issues. Atooba Shahzad was among those students identified as needing immediate attention and she was provided with the necessary prescription glasses by the Nazar 20/20 team.

Today, Atooba has been given the gift of clear vision. She can now see perfectly in the classroom, read from the whiteboard and engage with her studies without any hindrance. Thanks to the timely intervention and support from HDF's Nazar 20/20 team, Atooba has overcome her visual impairments and is leading a fulfilling life, focusing on her education and a brighter future ahead. She credits her transformation to HDF and Nazar 20/20.

“We owe a great debt of gratitude to HDF. Our market had long suffered from the severe lack of clean water. We often had to travel far just to purchase water and there were times when we couldn't access any at all. Thanks to HDF, they have now blessed us with clean, filtered water right here, accessible to us free of charge,” says Muhammad Amir Ahad, a vegetable seller at Sabzi Mandi, Islamabad.

Pakistan faces severe water stress due to climate change, rapid population growth and mismanagement of water resources. With an 80% decrease in water availability per capita in the last seven decades, a water crisis is imminent. This is not just an environmental concern but a social one, affecting people's health and livelihoods. The Sabzi Mandi (Fruits & Vegetable Market) success story, initiated by HDF, offers a glimmer of hope in this dire situation.

The community of Sabzi Mandi in Sector I-11/4 of Islamabad, including over 1000 street vendors, shopkeepers and traders and about 20,000 to 30,000 daily visitors, was gravely troubled with the lack of availability of clean drinking water. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) had once installed a water filtration plant but its low capacity and lack of maintenance had rendered the machinery useless and unable to fill the need of the community.

For at least six months, the absence of accessible clean water had forced the locals to either purchase expensive water or, worse, consume contaminated water that afflicted them with serious waterborne diseases. Locals fell sick one by one and despair gripped the Sabzi Mandi community. In this dire time, CDA and the Chairman of the Market Committee, Islamabad, Mr. Sadiq Abbasi, reached out to HDF, seeking an urgent solution.

HDF responded with determination, renovating the existing plant and installing new machinery capable of producing 2,000 to 2,500 liters of clean, hygienic water. This plant proved to be a lifeline for the locals, finally providing them with safe drinking water and earning their sincere gratitude.

The Sabzi Mandi success story shows HDF's commitment to sustainable environment and creating a brighter future amid Pakistan's water crisis. We firmly believe in the transformative power of compassion and work with empathy to alleviate the hardships of the underprivileged.

Malaika, the daughter of Ahmed Deen and Shabana, grew up in a modest family with three sisters and three brothers in the small town of Wahi Rahim. Her father, a property dealer, worked tirelessly to provide for his family and support their education. Malaika's early education began in her local government school in Wahi Rahim. Her academic journey took a significant turn when she secured the first position in her primary school, earning her a spot at HDF Girls High School in a nearby town.

The path to success was not without its challenges. Malaika's elder sister had also been studying at HDF Girls High School, making it convenient for their father to drop them off together. However, when her sister moved on to a city college after passing her matriculation exam, it became difficult for their father to manage both their commutes. In a remarkable display of complete and utter support for his daughter, Malaika's father gifted her a bicycle to ensure she could continue her education without interruption.

Despite the newfound independence, fate had other plans for Malaika. A road accident on her way back from school left her with a fractured arm and two broken fingers on her right hand just two months before her 8^th grade (middle school) final exams, casting a shadow of uncertainty over her academic aspirations. She had consistently secured the first position in grades 6^th and 7^th (middle school), and was determined to maintain her streak in the 8th class. With her arm in a cast and still unable to write, Malaika decided to remove the plaster by force two days before her annual exams. HDF School's management provided crucial support, allowing her to complete her papers.

Her hard work paid off when the results were announced and she once again achieved the first position, scoring an impressive 96.6%. Her dedication to academics didn't stop there. In the ninth grade, Malaika chose science subjects, driven by her passion to pursue the medical field. In a moment of immense pride and honor, she learned that she had been selected for the prestigious Abdus Salam Scholarship, a testament to her outstanding performance in the 8th grade. The scholarship provided financial support for her education, easing the burden on her family. Full of gratefulness, she remarks, “I am thankful to HDF for their support in helping me pursue my dream.”

Malaika's involvement in HDF School extended beyond academics. In a historic moment for the institution, school elections were held for the positions of Head Girl and Class Proctor. Malaika decided to participate, running her campaign with the symbol of a flower. Her dedication, leadership qualities and commitment to her peers resonated with the student body, resulting in her being elected as the Head Girl of the school. She embraced her responsibilities with utmost sincerity, earning the respect and admiration of both students and teachers.

Malaika's journey reached new heights in the 10th grade (high school), where she secured 88%, further solidifying her academic prowess. With unwavering determination, Malaika continues to strive for excellence, saying: “My aspiration is to become a doctor, and in doing so, I aim to bring honor to my parents and my school.”

Malaika Bibi's story is not just about academic achievement; it's about resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of education. Her journey, supported by HDF School and the Abdus Salam Scholarship, serves as an inspiration to all young minds, reminding them that with hard work and determination, they can overcome any obstacle and fulfill their dreams. Malaika's success is a testament to the potential within every child, waiting to be unlocked through education and unwavering dedication.

Ram Bai or Pholli as her friends call her, visits her temple every morning where she enthusiastically chants holy songs to please her deities and show her gratitude. Born in a lower-caste Hindu family, 19-year-old Pholli lives in a remote, underprivileged and ultra conservative village called Ranchor Kohli. Its stifling and conservative culture frowns upon the education and free movement of girls. This stifling environment made Pholli even more determined to make something of her life and the lives of her parents and three siblings. Pholli remembers when in 2009, HDF first opened its organization’s office in Ranchor Kohli with the slogan, “help people help themselves” and with the aim to help all villagers irrespective of any specific community or caste. Realizing the dire need for education, HDF began a non-formal school, which proved a turning point for Pholli. She joined the school and completed her education till grade five; soon after she joined another HDF program – the Community Health Worker (CHW) Program where she was trained to raise awareness on personal hygiene, preventative health care and girl child rights. However, continued financial hardships strengthened Pholli’s determination to further educate herself; she went on to complete her studies and became a qualified midwife. Now Pholli works in the local area spreading awareness about family planning and provides antenatal and postnatal services; in this way Pholli helps improve the quality of women’s lives while earning a good livelihood for herself. Pholli was grateful that she had the support of HDF which provided her with opportunities to learn, earn a good livelihood and further enhance her skills. She always wanted to study, and was motivated by the Social Organizers who were women, just like us, but educated, confident and aware of everything. Not being aware about contraceptives methods, we used to have big families. Now, I am aware, and being a CHW, I spread awareness about contraceptives, sanitation, health and hygiene in my locality.

Iqra (which means to read) was born in straw hut in a village where traditionally girls were not allowed to go to school. Growing up, Iqra constantly yearned to read and write and after much persistence, finally convinced her parents to let her attend the local primary school established by HDF. Later, applying the same tenacity and strength of character, Iqra left her village to attend college in the nearby city of Tando Muhammad Khan, and then successfully completed her M.Sc. in Mathematics from Sindh University, Jam Shoro. After graduating from university, Iqra returned to her village equipped with a degree, and passion to teach young boys and girls. Iqra knew that she was needed there and wanted to make the path to learning an easier one for others. She joined the HDF Secondary School in the nearby village of Kapoor Moree, where she now teaches mathematics. Iqra is grateful for HDF’s impact in every aspect of her life. With her livelihood as a teacher, she can now afford to send her two brothers to university to study engineering. It is crystal clear HDF is living up to its promise of quality education. It is changing the mindset of our children and giving them hope and skills to follow their dreams. Previously, our children were not motivated and did not even go to school but now they are performing exceptionally well.

Muhammad Asim, an energetic 28-year-old young boy was struggling to get a job. He had studied up to Intermediate (high-school) but had no skills that could make him employable. He was desperate as he wanted to support his father who was a carpenter earning a menial wage. Asim met one of HDF’s social organizers who told him about the newly launched technical training program to help youth learn and update their skills according to the needs of the job market. After contacting the Village Development Organization (VDO) he joined the six month long Basic Computer course. Soon after completion of the course, Asim was employed earning a salary enough to meet his educational expenses. Asim decided to complete his graduation (B.A) and also enrolled into an advanced computer course to further improve his skills while working at a lawyer’s office. Currently, he is working as a Customer Relation Officer for a mobile company and earning enough to support his family. My achievement is due to my mother’s prayers and the support of HDF. Without the backing of HDF, I would have been educated but with zero skills and hence, unemployed. They taught me the right skills which made me relevant for the current job market. Thank you HDF!

Naila was 20 when she got married to Qaiser. They live in village Pind Mistarian where HDF has a primary healthcare facility offering reproductive health services since 2002. Naila conceived soon after her marriage, but due to malnourishment, she miscarried. Shortly after, Naila conceived but miscarried again. The two miscarriages within the first year of her marriage took a toll on Naila’s physical and mental health. During routine door-to-door visits of HDF’s Community Health Workers (CHWs) in the village, Naila shared her plight. The CHW immediately registered Naila for HDF’s Preventive Healthcare Program and referred her to the Community Health Centre (CHC). After examination, the doctor prescribed Naila medicines and told her what to eat to bring her health back. The doctor also consoled her emotionally and psychologically and gave her hope that her dream of becoming a mother would indeed become a reality. Naila dutifully followed the HDF doctor’s advice, ate well, and stayed hopeful. Soon she was pregnant again. The HDF health staff checked on Naila frequently throughout her pregnancy. Regular counselling sessions helped her and her family to deal with the fear of abortion. Naila carried the baby to full term and gave birth to a healthy boy. She along with her husband and family are extremely grateful to the HDF health team who stood by her in such a difficult time and with their support is now enjoying this bundle of joy. All women and girls need and have the right to comprehensive, essential and lifesaving health services.

Basti Rahim De Wahi is a small village, 7-8km away from Rahim Yar Khan city, with the population of approximately 2,751. This Basti started facing the challenge of clean drinking water after establishment of a sewage treatment plant for Rahim Yar Khan city, nearby Basti Rahim De Wahi. People started feeling odor and change of color in ground water. When problem escalated and it became unbearable, Village Development Organization (VDO) – Kehkashan – approached HDF team for water interventions. HDF team along with VDO and community decided to install water filtration plant for clean drinking water, after survey. A water filtration plant of 5000 gallon capacity was installed, relieving the residents. March 31st, 2018 proved a day when people of community gathered around filtration plant, kids danced jubilantly. To encourage women participation, Farzana Shabbir was trained for operating filtration plant on voluntarily basis. Today, community is managing the filtration plant and enjoying clean drinking water. Our children were exposed to harmful environment but now we are happy that not only our kids but kids from neighbor village are getting benefit from filtration plant.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsMhrdFbeLw

WTM WORLD WILDLIFE DAY & HUMAN DEVELOPEMENT