On the final day of their visit to Bhakkar, international delegates on the Empowering Women and Girls study tour, found inspiration at a government-constructed school for special needs education in the heart of the city. The school’s groundbreaking stitching training program, in partnership with Bedari, empowers girls with disabilities—including those who are visually impaired, physically challenged, deaf, or have intellectual disorders—by equipping them with essential skills for self-reliance and future opportunities.
Beenish Naseer, a dedicated speech and language therapist, explained how the institution accommodates the diverse needs of its students, fostering an environment where every student feels valued. The delegates were particularly moved by the resilience and creativity of the students, who were transforming fabric into futures with each stitch.
The day continued with an empowering financial literacy session led by Sobia, Bedari’s project officer, and Bushra Alvi, a trainer from a microfinance initiative. Their training aimed to equip girls with the skills to manage their finances effectively and make informed economic choices—crucial steps toward fostering independence and sustainability in marginalized communities. The session underscored the role of economic empowerment in breaking cycles of poverty and creating new opportunities for women and girls.
After an engaging day, the delegates returned to Hotel Shehzad, where they observed a deliberation led by the Accountability Task Force. Guided by Rabia and Kashif, the discussion focused on improving school enrollment, particularly for girls as well as a presentation of a comprehensive analysis of progress, challenges, and future strategies. The task force, comprising members of civil society, community leaders, and government representatives from social welfare, health, and education departments, reaffirmed their collective commitment to uplifting Bhakkar’s education sector.
The day’s activities culminated in a vibrant cultural night organized by the provincial government of Bhakkar, the local police, and Bedari—a heartfelt farewell to the delegates before their departure to Islamabad. The District Commissioner, the guest of honor, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering collaborations with organizations like Bedari.
“I am deeply honored to be part of this event, which aligns with our vision of creating a supportive environment for initiatives that uplift the lives of our people, especially women and girls who face significant marginalization,” stated the District Commissioner.
The event was a true celebration of Bhakkar’s rich cultural heritage, featuring mesmerizing traditional dances from nearby villages. More importantly, it symbolized unity—bridging gaps between the local community, administration, and international partners, all working together toward a brighter future.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a shield of honor to Ms. Frances Ferreira, Senior Advisor for Empowering Women and Girls (EWG), in recognition of her unwavering dedication to the cause. The District Commissioner and other notable contributors, including Ms. Anbreen Ajaib, were also awarded shields for their remarkable efforts in driving this transformative agenda forward.
The visit, funded by the Commonwealth of Learning and Global Affairs Canada (GAC), epitomized the transformative power of education, skill-building, and financial literacy. It was a testament to the potential of collaborative efforts in empowering women and girls, paving the way for them to lead independent and fulfilling lives in Bhakkar and beyond.
