Karachi: Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), Mrs. Rubina Khalid, visited the BISP’s Sindh Regional Office in Karachi on August 21, 2024, to review and discuss the ongoing and upcoming initiatives aimed at empowering Pakistan’s underprivileged populations, particularly through skill development and artisan support.

According to Press Information Department, during her visit, Mrs. Khalid was presented with detailed statistical analyses of the region’s current programs. She emphasized the importance of human resource development in improving the socio-economic status of Pakistanis and announced plans for a pilot project focused on enhancing the handicraft and artisan industry. This initiative aims to identify skilled individuals, particularly women, and integrate them into productive economic activities with the help of fashion design students from local universities.

The Director General of BISP for the Sindh region outlined various successful interventions, including multiple shock-responsive cash transfers for crises like COVID-19 and floods, alongside regular support programs. He also noted ongoing digital, financial, and literacy training aimed at enhancing the beneficiaries’ skills and financial literacy.

Mrs. Khalid underscored the revival of skill development programs as crucial for expanding the scope of BISP’s impact. She highlighted a collaborative effort with STEVTA (Sindh Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority) to boost enrollment and training effectiveness, aiming for swift implementation within six months.

Furthermore, she stressed the importance of integrating BISP beneficiaries into the workforce, enhancing their marketability and financial independence through high-quality handicraft production. This includes a partnership model with Bank Alfalah to create a market space in District Khairpur, showcasing locally made products.

The Chairperson’s visit reflected a strong commitment to not only providing financial aid but also facilitating sustainable income opportunities for the skilled yet underprivileged segments of society, reinforcing BISP’s role in national development beyond mere social security.