BISP New Chairperson DR. MUHAMMAD AMJAD SAQIB
Bisp and Akhuwat Together to help the poor.
BISP and the Akhuwat Foundation, two remarkable initiatives have joined forces to make a significant impact Dr. Muhammad Amjad Saqib, the driving force behind both the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and the Akhuwat Foundation. His journey from a civil servant to a social entrepreneur echoes the tale of hope, resilience, and transformative change. The incredible synergy between BISP and Akhuwat, showcasing how these initiatives are reshaping the destiny of millions in Pakistan.
Established to honor the vision of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, BISP emerged as a lifeline for Pakistan’s vulnerable population. Dr. Saqib, as the appointed chairman, brought innovative strategies and a compassionate approach to the program. BISP doesn’t just provide financial assistance; it empowers individuals and families, granting them the means to rise above poverty’s suffocating grip.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1957 in Kamalia, Punjab, Dr. Saqib’s early life hinted at the compassion and drive that would define his future endeavors. He pursued his medical degree from King Edward Medical College, Lahore, displaying an early commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. Later, he pursued further studies, earning a master’s degree in Public Administration from American University, Washington D.C.
The Akhuwat-BISP Synergy: An Unprecedented Alliance
In a groundbreaking move, Dr. Saqib united BISP and the Akhuwat Foundation, fusing the expertise of two impactful entities. By combining BISP’s wide-reaching network with Akhuwat’s microfinance model, they created a powerful synergy. Through this collaboration, the underprivileged will not only receive monetary aid but also gain access to interest-free loans, breaking the chains of poverty with sustainable solutions.
BISP, under Dr. Saqib’s leadership, has placed a particular emphasis on empowering women. By providing financial aid to female-headed households, the program promotes gender equality and strengthens the social fabric. Through skill development initiatives and microloans provided by Akhuwat, women are encouraged to become entrepreneurs, enhancing their economic independence and self-esteem.
BISP, in collaboration with Akhuwat, extends its support beyond monetary assistance. The amalgamation of these entities has given rise to holistic development initiatives. From educational scholarships and vocational training to healthcare support and community development projects, the collaboration addresses multifaceted challenges faced by impoverished communities.
The Birth of Akhuwat Foundation
In 2001, Dr. Saqib founded the Akhuwat Foundation, pioneering interest-free microfinance in Pakistan. With an unwavering belief in the Islamic principle of Mawakhat (brotherhood), he envisioned a society free from poverty, built on compassion and equity. Under his guidance, Akhuwat has disbursed over Rs. 194 billion in interest-free loans, reaching 5.7 million families, and becoming the world’s largest Islamic microfinance organization.
Conclusion: A Vision of Hope Realized
In the hands of Dr. Muhammad Amjad Saqib, BISP and Akhuwat have become beacons of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for Pakistan. Through their combined efforts, vulnerable families are not just recipients of aid; they are architects of their destinies. Dr. Saqib’s unwavering dedication and the synergy between BISP and Akhuwat are a testament to the transformative power of compassion and collaboration. Together, they are not merely alleviating poverty; they are nurturing a nation’s potential and fostering dreams that reach far beyond the confines of hardship.
