Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) is committed to providing a positive impact on our society, and we are currently working on a number of projects to do so. Our projects are remodelling the targeted communities in different regions of Pakistan so that people of all ages may congregate there and participate in various activities. We are working with schools to provide resources for educational programmes for students from underserved communities.

We are establishing supporting the communities as part of our commitment to encouraging healthy lifestyles to increase access to nutrient-dense food options and enhance livelihood opportunities. We also understand the significance of mental health and are attempting to help individuals in need by offering counselling services and support groups.

Following is the list of projects we are currently implementing in Pakistan:

1. Education Early Response for Emergency in Sindh – UNICEF:

SPO, with the support of UNICEF, is implementing this project to provide comprehensive support to children affected by the 2022 floods, ensuring their access to education and holistic development. This includes establishing Temporary Learning Centres (TLCs) and operational schools from early childhood education (ECE) up to the secondary school level, with a focus on girls’ education. Activities encompass regular monitoring, validation, and rehabilitation of schools, alongside capacity-building initiatives for staff, teachers, School Management Committees (SMCs), and youth club members. Coordination meetings at provincial and district levels facilitate effective implementation, while community engagement sessions and dissemination of educational messages promote learning and inclusion. SPO is also distributing educational supplies, recreational kits, School-in-a-Box Kits, Learning Schools Kits, Hygiene Kits, MNH Kits, blackboards with stands, watercolors, and foam mats. In addition, the project is improving the learning environment at TLCs through the capacity building of teachers and conducting health and hygiene sessions. Low-cost shelters of climate-resilient, child-friendly TLC structures were also established using local low-cost materials at the fully damaged schools to provide easy access to education for students, especially girls. Similarly, climate-resilient, child-friendly TLCs were established through the installation of high-performance tents, which were provided. 

2. Improving Family Planning Knowledge, Positive Attitudes and Practice  – PPIF: 

SPO is implementing this project with the support of PPIF to address the information gap and limited availability of contemporary family planning services in six districts of Punjab. This project seeks to enhance Family Planning (FP) knowledge and promote positive attitudes, and practices. The strategy involves implementing Social and Behavior Change Communication Interventions using mobile health (mHealth) technologies and a dynamic Social Media campaign, alongside comprehensive training and capacity-building initiatives. In this project, we are referring Married Women of Reproductive Ages (MWARs) for Family Planning Services, and training females and males through youth, volunteers, and service providers, and sensitizing MWARs and men about the features and functionalities of the developed Humraah Mobile application. Furthermore, SPO has implemented a comprehensive social media campaign on Facebook reaching more than 8 million users. This collective effort signifies a substantial step forward in promoting and ensuring accessible healthcare services for the community.

3. Foundation Assisted Schools (FAS) Program – SEF:

SPO is currently implementing the project in collaboration with (Sindh Education Foundation) SEF to implement the Foundation Assisted Schools (FAS) Program in Sindh. SPO is taking significant strides to augment educational facilities and opportunities for underprivileged children in Sindh. The enrolment of girls and boys in FAS schools signifies a substantial commitment to promoting accessible education. A noteworthy achievement was the establishment of an Audio-Visual Room under the FAS program, equipped with LED screens and tablets, creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment for students. Furthermore, the provision of learning materials and classroom development initiatives has enhanced the overall educational experience. The program successfully implemented alternative energy solutions through the installation of solar systems, ensuring a sustainable and uninterrupted learning environment. Notably, the English Model School Gaheja in Shikarpur was entrusted to SPO due to its exceptional performance, witnessing a significant increase in enrolment.

4. Middle and High School (SMHS) Program – SEF:

SPO is implementing the SEF Middle and High School (SMHS) Program to fill the gap in post-primary education and raise enrolment by creating a thriving learning environment for young learners. The project is being implemented in the eight schools of districts Sukkur and Jacobabad.  We have successfully implemented significant initiatives to promote educational inclusivity and provide essential facilities to the children, and many of them are from marginalized communities. Our focus at SMHS was on cultivating a comprehensive learning experience. This involved ensuring the availability of free textbooks and supplementary learning materials, as well as promoting both writing and interactive learning skills. To improve the overall learning environment at SMHS schools, we prioritized the provision of basic amenities such as safe drinking water, well-maintained toilets, and a heightened emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene. Our efforts were recognized through the scholarship awards received by two students from Chook Lashari School and one student from Dargahi Warayo School, bestowed by the prestigious Abdul Qadeer Khan School System in Islamabad. We have further strengthened our programs through resource mobilization facilitated by Telenor Pakistan, which generously provided IT equipment for SMHS. Renovation efforts were also undertaken, including the refurbishment of the school building at SMHS-0063 and comprehensive repairs and enhancements at the SMHS-0069 building. These renovations included the installation of doors and windows, as well as a fresh coat of paint, all contributing to the overall improvement of the learning environment.

5. Adolescent and Adult Learning and Training Program (AALTP) – SEF:

SPO is currently implementing the AALTP Program with the support of the Sindh Education Foundation (SEF) to cater to individuals who may have missed the opportunity to enroll in formal education. This comprehensive program offers an accelerated formal primary education for vulnerable adolescents and imparts basic functional literacy skills for adults. Additionally, each participant undergoes a certified Skills Development and Vocational Training course, equipping them with a diverse set of skills that open up opportunities for human capital development and contribute to socio-economic growth. The project is implemented in the districts of Sukkur and Jacobabad. Our commitment to their holistic growth is reflected in the provision of free textbooks and learning materials, with a particular emphasis on nurturing writing and learning skills. The initiative extended to the enhancement of basic facilities within educational institutions, encompassing provisions for safe drinking water, cleanliness, hygiene, and well-maintained toilets. Audio and video rooms were established in the AALTP schools to enrich the learning experience.

6. Promoting Private Schools in Rural Sindh (PPRS) Program – SEF:

SPO is currently implementing the Promoting Private Schools in Rural Sindh (PPRS) Program to enhance the quality of education by providing comprehensive capacity development for teachers in subjects including IT, English, Math, and Science. This capacity development initiative was conducted in collaboration with the SEF and aimed at equipping teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge to provide an all-inclusive educational experience for the students. We are providing essential learning materials and implementing classroom development initiatives to support the learning process and create a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning. Additionally, we are extending support to promote sustainability by installing solar systems and alternative energy solutions for schools and reducing their dependence on conventional energy sources. Acknowledging the importance of a conducive learning environment, we distributed school uniforms among the children, ensuring equality and inclusivity within the PPRS schools. 

7. Treatment of TB Patients through Direct Observation Treatment Service (TB DOTS) – Mercy Corps:

SPO is implementing this project with the support of Mercy Corps Global aimed at addressing the pervasive threat of TB. This initiative has made substantial strides in combating TB through innovative strategies focused on treatment enhancement and early detection techniques. SPO is successfully treating TB patients with this project and has achieved a significant reduction in social stigma associated with early symptom recognition due to greater public awareness of the disease in the targeted districts of Balochistan. Additionally, the project is facilitating faster and more precise TB diagnoses through the increased availability of cutting-edge testing equipment, ensuring timely interventions and improved patient outcomes. We have intensified our initiatives to manage drug-resistant TB strains, achieving success through targeted treatment protocols. Simultaneously, we’ve enhanced the healthcare workforce by incorporating well-trained professionals in TB diagnosis and treatment. The establishment of a sustainable framework ensures the enduring impact of our ongoing TB control efforts. Consequently, household and community TB transmission rates have decreased, significantly enhancing public health.

8. Digitalization of TB Data to support the scale-up of private provider engagement for TB in Pakistan – Mercy Corps:

SPO, under this project, is reinforcing its commitment to cater to Tuberculosis (TB) patients by extending efforts for a TB-Free Balochistan, with the support of Mercy Corps, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Pakistan TB Control Programme, while also creating awareness amongst communities on its prevention. SPO strengthened the capacity of implementing partners in the TB Control Programme to ensure maximum usage of a range of digital technologies for patient support. This is resulting in the digitalization of case-based TB data in the country, increased engagement of private providers, improved TB case notification, and timely and improved reporting and treatment. SPO has registered and entered TB cases into the District Health Information System (DHIS2), ensuring comprehensive tracking and management of TB incidences. To facilitate efficient data entry, Android tablets were distributed for use in the field. Additionally, new DHIS2 users have been trained, enhancing the capacity for accurate and timely reporting across various health facilities and departments involved in TB control efforts. These efforts underscore a concerted initiative toward improving disease surveillance and response within the target districts of Balochistan.

9. Faith in Action for Sustainable Climate Resilience Project – Norwegian Church Aid (NCA):

SPO is implementing this project with the support of NCA to promote joint climate change social actions by creating Women Self-Help Groups and promoting grassroots empowerment. We are prioritizing gender inclusivity by ensuring the representation of women from marginalized areas. SPO is fostering collaboration with faith actors in joint climate change social action through training sessions. Standardized sermons on climate change are being delivered across religious locations, spreading awareness. We are engaging individuals in activities enhancing climatic resilience. Through tailored training sessions for faith actors and Community-Based Organization (CBO) members, climate-resilient action plans were developed in Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Successful advocacy efforts with KP’s departments resulted in the appointment of a focal person for the Climate Change Policy Review. We are actively participating in forums contributing to robust contingency plans. We installed CRM boxes in schools, providing contact numbers for Women Protection Cells. Mass mobilization, public rallies, and press conferences sensitized individuals to climate adaptation, while gender-based violence cases were referred to women’s protection cells. Sindh Climate Action Network (SCAN), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Action Network (KPCAN), and FACE initiated the promotion of climate change adaptable measures, raising awareness in both provinces.

10. Strengthening Local Civil Society and Community-based Organizations and their Capacity in the Nutrition Sector in Sindh – IRC

SPO is implementing this project with the support of IRC to address malnutrition in five districts of Pakistan’s north Sindh, including Kashmore, Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur, and Nosheroferoze. The action is aimed at improving local civil society organizations’ capacity to lead policy dialogue, improve facility-based treatment, and increase community outreach for nutrition. The action will work closely with the government health department and nutrition actors to improve nutrition-related skills, and supply chain management, and establish connections between community outreach health workers and community committees. By the end of the action, local CSOs will be able to advocate for policy changes, develop and implement nutrition-sensitive programming, and enable communities and outreach health workers to effectively screen and refer malnourished children to outpatient therapeutic programs. SPO, IRC and partners will collaborate with AAP, UNICEF, and WFP to address gaps in nutrition service delivery and outreach coverage. The action will target CSOs, CBOs, health staff, community outreach workers, and caregivers, with the ultimate beneficiaries being under 5 children, Pregnant and Lactating Women, and caregivers who will benefit from the awareness and nutrition service delivery component.  

11. Punjab Rural Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Project (PRSWSSP) – PRMSC:

SPO,  in consortium with WaterAid Pakistan and M&C Saatchi Pakistan, is implementing the project title ‘Punjab Rural Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Project (PRSWSSP)’, focusing on the development and execution of the Behaviour Change Communication and Development (BCCD) strategy in 2,000 villages, with implementation in 200 selected villages of Punjab. Collaborating with the Punjab Rural Municipal Services Company (PRMSC), a company established by the Local Government & Community Development Department (LG&CDD), Government of Punjab, under section 42 of the Companies Act 2017, SPO, WaterAid and its JV partners are working toward the objectives of sustaining Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services while combating stunting in rural communities across 16 tehsils of Punjab. The financial support for this initiative comes from the Government of Punjab and the World Bank Group. Initially, the project initiates a pilot phase in 200 villages, aiming to comprehensively address the specific needs of these communities through a tailored behaviour change campaign.

12. Gender Mainstreaming & GBV for Human Capital Investment Project (KP-HCIP) Elementary and Secondary Education Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

SPO, in collaboration with the Elementary and Secondary Education Department, the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Rozan, is implementing the project ‘Gender Mainstreaming and Addressing Gender-based Violence (GBV) Under the Human Capital Investment Project (KP-HCIP)’ in 13 districts of KP. The project aims to mitigate issues of violence against children and gender mainstreaming in 1000 schools in KP. The project carries a pertinent significance to engage the stakeholders and seek their input and commitments to provide a safer environment to children in school settings.

13. AAWAZ – II – DSP – British Council

SPO is implementing the Aawaz II Programme, which is a multi-faceted initiative aimed at promoting social cohesion, reducing Gender-based Violence (GBV), and preventing early and forced marriages in district Khanewal and Vehari. The programme endeavors to reduce the incidence of GBV by raising awareness, providing support services, and advocating for gender-sensitive policies. A central objective is to prevent early and forced marriages, especially among young girls, by increasing community awareness and encouraging behavioral change. The Programme promotes community unity and understanding across diverse backgrounds and aims to enhance social cohesion

14. AAWAZ – II – Resource Partner – British Council

SPO is implementing this project with the support of British Council to develop and revise capacity-building documents including manuals, handbooks, IEC material papers agenda for learning activities, etc, and to provide support for the translation and editing of Programme documents. The organization is supporting to deployment of a team of excellent facilitators to conduct ToTs, orientation sessions, learning forums, and other activities to engage women, men, youth, and communities, and for mentoring the community facilitators in partner organisations.

15. Grassroots Action to End Child Early and Forced Marriage – Save the Children Pakistan

SPO is currently implementing this project with the support of Save the Children Pakistan. The project takes a comprehensive approach to accelerate action on preventing and responding to Child Early Forced Marriage (CEFM) in Pakistan. Through the delivery of organizational and technical capacity-strengthening sub-awards to grassroots Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), it employs gender-transformative and inclusive strategies. The initiative focuses on strengthening the ecosystem through CEFM-related networks and cultivating relationships with the government and key stakeholders. It places a strong emphasis on supporting the leadership and meaningful participation of marginalized groups, youth, and women within CSOs and CEFM-related networks. Designed for sustainability and scalability, the project harmonizes community-based efforts while catalyzing changes in social norms and advancements in CEFM policy implementation, thereby fostering lasting change at both grassroots and policy levels.

16. Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) – PPAF:

SPO is implementing the project “Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP)" funded by the European Union and being implemented by SPO, ITC, FAO, and PPAF. The GRASP project contributes to the reduction of poverty through the development of rural micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sindh and Baluchistan provinces of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. GRASP ultimately seeks to support poverty reduction and sustainable, inclusive growth in rural areas of Pakistan. The project’s outcome aims to enhance the productivity and profitability of SMEs involved in primary production, service provision, and value addition in and around selected clusters of production. As such, the project contributes directly to the attainment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). SPO is working in 10 Union Councils and two selected districts, Kech and Panjgur of Baluchistan Province to promote rural mobilization and to identify and select potential Business Intermediary Organizations (BIOs) and Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) for cash and in-kind Matching Grants (MG) worth PKR 30, PKR 2.5 and PKR 0.5 Million. The concept of Financial Literacy and Business Planning is being stimulated by creating Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)/SMEs linkages with Financial Institutions (FIs). Under this initiative, SPO is working for MSMEs/SMEs’ business development and enhancement through their participation at fairs, investment panels, expos, and in various other business enhancement exercises.

17. New water Rights for Basin Management and Inclusivity in Spate Irrigated Areas of Pakistan – MetaMeta

SPO is contributing to the improvement of agricultural and water management practices in Bhag Nari, one of the remotest areas of Balochistan, and its surrounding villages through community engagement and implementing comprehensive initiatives. We are collaborating with farmers in Bhag Nari to identify the project’s scope, ensuring alignment with local needs. This participatory approach empowered the local community by involving them in the decision-making process. The successful completion of water rights and water use in eight villages of Bolan District demonstrates our commitment to addressing essential water resource management issues. Our continuous engagement reflects ongoing efforts to ensure equitable water distribution and usage, benefiting agricultural production and local livelihoods.

18. Saibaan Project – OGDCL

SPO is implementing this project with the support of OGDCL to construct 30 houses in 04 villages, Allah Abad, Arbab Mallah, Hindu Ghot, and Ali Bughti of Jaffarabad district, utilizing resilient construction practices to ensure the durability of the houses. With the collaboration of local authorities and community members of Jaffarabad, the Saiban Project seeks to create a model of inclusive development that prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable and endeavors to break the cycle of poverty. As the construction commences, the Saiban Project invites continued support from all stakeholders, recognizing that collective efforts are imperative in creating lasting change and building an equitable society.      

19. Uplifting of Public Park and Establishment of Women Fitness Centre at Shikarpur, Sindh – Engro Energy Limited 

SPO is implementing this project with the support of Engro Energy Limited to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Shikarpur by offering free recreational facilities. This initiative includes the revitalization of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park, situated near the Circuit House on Faujdari Road, and the establishment of the Shikarpur Women Fitness Center. These improvements are designed to provide the local community with upgraded spaces for leisure and fitness, promoting well-being and fostering a more active lifestyle among residents.

20. Flood Recovery and Response – A Community-Wide Approach – Oxfam:

SPO is currently implementing the project titled “Flood Recovery and Response – A Community-Wide Approach” with the financial support of Oxfam GB. The project started in January 2023 and will conclude in June 2024, and is being implemented in districts Mirpukhas and Sanghar in Sindh, Jaffarabad and Sohbatpur in Balochistan. The overall goal of the project is to work in the recovery phase of the flood response in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), Food and Economic Security (FES), and Protection sectors in the 40 villages of these districts in Sindh and Balochistan. SPO through this recovery phase project is supporting the neediest and vulnerable groups to help them rebuild their resilience and recover from the devastating flood damage. This project aims to help minimize the catastrophic impact of floods and contribute to building the resilience of the affected communities over the long term and to enhance the resilience of the flood-affected communities, especially the vulnerable groups, in the aftermath of floods through the provision of a safe healthy, and conducive environment for sustainable livelihoods and better infrastructure. The outcome of the project will be improved and sustainable livelihoods of beneficiaries and communal-level initiatives around FES, WASH, and Protection.