Sungi Development Foundation Hosts High-Level Visit by FCDO and British Council Delegation in Sheikhupura under Aawaz II Programme:
Sungi Development Foundation, under the Aawaz II Programme, recently hosted a significant visit from a high-level delegation representing the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the British Council in the Sheikhupura district. The delegation included distinguished individuals such as Mr. Richard Lindsay, Head of Political Engagement, Ms. Kate Joyce, Development Advisor, Ms. Maarya Rehman, Country Director of the British Council, Mr. Ali Naqvi, and Dr. Yasmin Zaidi, Programme Director of Aawaz II.
During their visit, the delegation met with the Aawaz District Forum of Sheikhupura, an initiative aimed at enhancing citizen-state engagement and promoting social cohesion. The forum provided a platform for members to discuss pressing issues and share insights on the successes and challenges of the programme. Mr. Shahid Imran Marth, Deputy Commissioner of Sheikhupura, was also present at the meeting, where he lauded Aawaz II for its exemplary efforts in driving behavior change and promoting stronger relationships between communities and government institutions. According to the Deputy Commissioner, the Aawaz II Programme has played a important role in narrowing the communication gap between marginalized communities and the state, thus enabling more inclusive governance.
In addition to the forum, the delegation visited the Aawaz Aagahi Center (AAC) and the Village Forum (VF) located in the village of Kadlathi, a predominantly Christian community. This visit provided the delegation an opportunity to witness firsthand the on-the-ground impact of the Aawaz II Programme. Members of the community openly shared their personal stories and experiences, particularly emphasizing how the AAC and VF have contributed to resolving local issues, improving access to services, and promoting social inclusion. The community members highlighted the important role that the programme has played in amplifying the voices of marginalized groups, including women, religious minorities, and persons with disabilities.
The visit highlighted the significance of Aawaz II’s initiatives in promoting inclusive development, protecting the rights of marginalized and vulnerable groups, and promoting peaceful co-existence among diverse communities. Through its various components, such as the District Forums and Aagahi Centers, the programme continues to drive positive change by creating safe spaces for dialogue, providing information on legal and social rights, and facilitating meaningful citizen-state interactions. By strengthening local governance structures and encouraging active community participation, the Aawaz II Programme is a critical force in the pursuit of social justice, equality, and sustainable development in Pakistan.
This engagement between the FCDO, British Council, and Aawaz II Programme reaffirms the international support for efforts aimed at building a more inclusive and cohesive society. It also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of Sungi Development Foundation’s work in advancing the rights and opportunities of underrepresented groups, while promoting constructive engagement between citizens and the state.
