SPO Accredited with NDRMF
Accredited Entities with NDRMF
Congratulations to SPO Chairperson Javed Jabbar Sahib on Receiving the Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Literature)
SPO’s Position Statement on Jaranwala Incident (August 2023)
SPO’s Position Statement on Jaranwala Incident (August 2023) We strongly condemn the recent reprehensible act of violence that occurred in Jaranwala, where members of the Christian community were targeted in a heinous manner. This incident, purportedly stemming from baseless charges of blasphemy, is not only deeply distressing but also runs counter to the principles of compassion, tolerance, and respect that are integral to our shared humanity. In an age where information spreads rapidly and emotions can be easily inflamed, it is imperative for citizens to exercise discernment and critical thinking. Recent events underscore the dangerous consequences of hastily embracing allegations of blasphemy, fake news, and hate speech without careful consideration. The abrupt and frenzied reactions stemming from widely disseminated accusations have, in certain instances, led to widespread destruction and societal unrest. Disturbingly, instances have come to light wherein torn pages of the Holy Quran were discovered, bearing the names and phone numbers of local Christian residents—an apparent attempt to unjustly link them to alleged acts of blasphemy. These incidents shed light on the presence of ulterior motives driven by self-interest, local disputes, and personal vendettas, which have the potential to manipulate public sentiment and incite immediate actions. As responsible members of our community, it is crucial to remain vigilant against manipulation, to uphold the principles of justice, and to safeguard against the propagation of falsehoods that can have far-reaching and devastating consequences. The overwhelming majority of Pakistani Muslims exemplify their deep-seated respect for their Christian compatriots through their actions. This is evident in the significant number of Muslim children and young individuals who attend Christian-operated schools and colleges across the nation on a daily basis. This practice speaks volumes about the shared values and interfaith harmony that characterize Pakistani society. The trust placed in these institutions is a testament to the exceptional standard of non-sectarian and non-partisan education they provide. This collective endorsement not only bolsters educational pursuits but also underscores the symbiotic relationship that prevails between different religious communities, fostering an atmosphere of cooperation, mutual understanding, and coexistence. The sanctity of every individual’s beliefs and their right to practice their faith without fear of persecution or harm is a fundamental principle that should be upheld by every society and also guaranteed by Islam. It is disheartening to witness such acts of violence that not only jeopardize lives and properties but also threaten the fabric of our society by sowing seeds of division and mistrust. We, the SPO family unequivocally stand for peace and religious harmony, and we call upon all individuals, communities, and leaders to come together and reject violence as a means of expressing grievances or addressing differences. It is imperative that we promote open dialogue, empathy, and understanding as the foundation for resolving conflicts and fostering unity. In light of the distressing events in Jaranwala, the SPO appeals to the Government of Pakistan to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and protection of religious minorities across the country. The government’s responsibility to safeguard the rights and well-being of all its citizens, regardless of their faith, cannot be overstated. We also urge authorities to thoroughly investigate this incident, hold those responsible accountable for their actions, and ensure that justice is served. Furthermore, we call upon civil society, religious leaders, and community representatives to collaborate in creating an environment where diversity is celebrated and differences are embraced as sources of strength. By working collectively, we can build a society that is resilient against forces that seek to divide us and promote a vision of unity, understanding, and mutual respect. Let us all remember that our strength lies in our ability to coexist peacefully, embracing our differences while recognizing our shared aspirations for a just and harmonious society. Through our collective efforts, we can contribute to the creation of a more compassionate and inclusive Pakistan that upholds the values of peace, tolerance, and respect for all. By: SPO General Body Members 1. Senator (r) Javed Jabbar, Chairperson (Sindh) 2. Ms. Mahnaz Fareed Sheikh, Vice-Chairperson (Punjab) 3. Ms. Shazia Akhtar, Member (Balochistan) 4. Mr. Mohammad Amin, Member (Balochistan) 5. Dr. Taj Baloch, Member (Balochistan) 6. Ms. Kalpana Devi, Member (Sindh) 7. Dr. Ayesha Samad Dogar, Member (Balochistan) 8. Sister Naseem George, Member (Punjab) 9. Ms. Parveen Ghauri, Member (Punjab) 10. Dr. Tufail Mohammad Khan, Member (KP) 11. Ms. Samina Khan, Member (FCT) 12. Mr. Naseer Memon, Member (Sindh) 13. Ms. Faiza Mir, Member (Balochistan) 14. Mr. Sibtain Naqvi, Member (Sindh) 15. Ms. Shabnam Nawaz, Member (KP) 16. Ms. Rukhshanda Naz, Member (KP) 17. Mr. Abdul Qadir, Member (FCT) 18. Mohammad Rafiq, Member (KP) 19. Syed Abid Rizvi, Member (Punjab) 20. Ms. Sadiqa Salahuddin, Member (Sindh) 21. Dr. Farhat Ali Sheikh, Member (FCT) 22. Mr. Fawad Soomro, Member (Sindh) 23. Ms. Zeenat Yaqoob Yousufzai, Member (Balochistan) 24. Ms. Arifa Mazhar, Chief Executive (Ex-officio) 25. Aaref Farooqui, Company Secretary
GRASP 3rd Cycle Grants Announcement
GRASP Project 3rd Cycle Grants Announcement Attachments: 0.5M Urdu Application, Criteria, Scoring YM 2.5, 30M Urdu Application, Criteria, Scoring (YM)1F
IUCN Pakistan
“Empowering local communities can help conserve wildlife: experts” The News – May 24th, 2020 Local communities can play an important role in the conservation of wildlife in various areas of Pakistan if they get benefits from conservation activities, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Pakistan experts said on Saturday, adding that the trophy hunting program was the best example in this regard that has benefited local communities monetarily to the tune of $7 million so far. They were speaking at an international webinar, organized by the IUCN-Pakistan on the occasion of International Day for Biological Diversity, IUCN Pakistan, to commemorate the day and highlight the importance of biodiversity and the nature- based solutions. The theme of the day this year was: “Our solutions are in nature”. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/663059-empowering-local-communities-can-help-conserve-wildlife-experts “Solutions for saving biodiversity discussed” The Express Tribune – May 24th, 2020 Nature based solutions are most viable in preserving the biodiversity, experts said at a webinar on International Day for Biological Diversity organized by IUCN Pakistan. The theme of the day this year was ‘Our solutions are in nature’ said a press release issued on Saturday. In her remarks, Aban Marker Kabraji, Regional Director IUCN Asia and Director – Regional Hub for Asia-Oceania, said that nature based-solutions has been IUCN’s concept that was developed many years go and its understanding, analysis and its application is constantly evolving. She further explained that given the current pandemic, IUCN continued to be safe and continued to think of the linkages “we have with nature, and how nature-based solutions could serve as a way forward for us all.” https://tribune.com.pk/story/2228127/1-solutions-saving-biodiversity-discussed/ “Nature based solutions to provide jobs in ongoing crisis: IUCN” The Pakistan Observer – May 24th, 2020 On International Day for Biological Diversity, IUCN Pakistan organized a webinar to commemorate the day and highlight the importance of Biodiversity and the nature-based solutions. The theme of the day this year was: ‘Our solutions are in nature’, says a press release issued here on Saturday.. In her remarks, Ms. Aban Marker Kabraji, Regional Director IUCN Asia and Director – Regional Hub for Asia-Oceania, said that Nature based-solutions has been IUCN’s concept that was developed many years go and its understanding, analysis and its application is constantly evolving. She further explained that given the current pandemic, IUCN continued to be safe and continued to think of the linkages we have with nature, and how nature-based solutions could serve as a way forward for us all.’ Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative IUCN Pakistan thanked the participants and recounted IUCN’s works towards conservation of nature and natural resources. He said that IUCN has been instrumental in putting together strategies, action plans for the federal and provincial and district governments. IUCN’s works spans from coasts to mountains in partnership with the government and NGOs. https://pakobserver.net/nature-based-solutions-to-provide-jobs-in-ongoing-crisis-iuncn/ “IUCN Celebrates International Biodiversity Day Nature Based Solutions to Provide Jobs in the ongoing Crisis” Technology Times – May 23rd, 2020 On the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity, IUCN Pakistan organized a webinar to commemorate the day and highlight the importance of Biodiversity and the nature-based solutions. The theme of the day this year was: “Our solutions are in nature”. In her remarks, Ms. Aban Marker Kabraji, Regional Director IUCN Asia and Director – Regional Hub for Asia-Oceania, said that Nature based-solutions has been IUCN’s concept that was developed many years go and its understanding, analysis and its application is constantly evolving. She further explained that given the current pandemic, IUCN continued to be safe and continued to think of the linkages we have with nature, and how nature-based solutions could serve as a way forward for us all.”
Purazam Pakistan : Episode 1, 2, 3 and 4
Tuberculosis (TB) check-up campaign organized by SPO at village of Lasbella providing free medical aid for prevention and treatment of TB.
Strengthening Participatory Organization is Sub recipient (SR) with Mercy Corps (MC) in 06 Districts of Balochistan under Public Private Mix (PPM) model with Private Health Care Providers, Private Laboratories. SPO as part of its advocacy campaign, organizes community gatherings and chest camps in various hotspots for identifying and diagnosing cases of TB in underprivileged and less educated areas, where people are unaware of symptoms of TB and lack the resources for treatment. By engaging with community leaders and activists SPO aims to make larger number of men, women and children participate in chest camps, where doctors, health workers, laboratory technicians examine patients with more than one week cough and further processes with sputum microscopy. Positive results are registered in recording and reporting tools and further PHCPs continues with the provision of TB medicines with regular follow ups till complete treatment and cure of the patient.
Khuli Kachehri on Right to Education for the Marginalized Communities of District Badin, Sindh
“Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) with the technical support of Foundation Open Society Institute (FOSI) has been implementing Project” Right to Education for the Marginalized Communities of District Badin, Sindh”. After making of School Improvement Plans (SIPs) for schools of 4 Union Councils, SPO formed Education Interest Groups (EIGs) and organized 1 day Open Court –’Khuli Khachari’ in Gym Khana, District Badin. The main purpose of the event was to engage officials of District and Taluka for the implementation of SIPs. Union Council Advocacy Awareness Group (UCAAGs) shared the identified school needs in this event. 56 participants including Mr. Muhammad Saleh Korejo, Deputy District Education Officer (DDEO), Mr. Zahid Talpur, Taluka Education Officer (TEO), Muhammad Hanif, Mr. Muhammad Zanoor and Mr. Abdul Razaqe Khaskheli, Union Council Supervisors were present in the event. UCAAGs, EIG members, civil society, media personnel were also present. Chartered of demand derived from SIPs was submitted with follow-up action plan.
WASH Rights and Budget 2018, Consultation with Punjab Assembly Members at Lahore, on 16th February 2018
Meeting with Women Caucus and Gender Mainstreaming Committee, Punjab Assembly organized by SPO and WaterAid. Meeting was Chaired by Kanwal Nauman – Chairperson Women Caucus, Shameela Aslam – Vice Chairperson, Raheela Khadem Hussain – Chairperson Gender Mainstreaming Standing Committee, Anayatullah and Farqat Ali from WaterAid,. The meeting highlighted WASH issues in Punjab, especially for women and effective advocacy and lobbying for increase in WASH budget. Addressing the committee meeting, Kanwal Nauman, MPA Punjab Assembly – PMLN, Member of Standing Committee on Special Education and Standing Committee on Home Affairs. She is also Member of Censor Board as well as serving as media coordinator of Women Parliamentary Caucus.