Brilliant minds with years of experience, eyes sparkling with the joy to share their contributions and hearts flooded with the emotion of bringing positive change in society by making lives of masses easier! This is what the 5th Annual Humphrey Conference was all about. The event was nothing lesser than powerhouse of ideas and first-hand narrations by change makers. The Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN), in collaboration with the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), recently hosted the 5th Annual Humphrey Alumni Conference. Held in Islamabad from May 10-12, 2024, this gathering served as a beacon of hope, uniting brilliant minds from diverse backgrounds under the common goal of fostering positive change within society.
The conference, generously funded by the U.S. Mission to Pakistan, brought together 100 Humphrey alumni from across Pakistan. These individuals, hailing from various sectors including public administration, climate change, public health, and education, converged to share their invaluable insights and experiences on topics ranging from social responsibility to inclusivity and empowerment.
OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 5th ANNUAL HUMPHREY CONFERENCE
Background
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is funded by the U.S. government and offers mid-career professionals the opportunity to attend a university and collaborate with U.S.-based organizations through professional affiliation. Since its launch in Pakistan in 1981, the Fellowship has been awarded to 311 professionals. These alumni work in leadership positions in public and private sectors, including public administration, climate change, public health, higher education, law and human rights, and agricultural and rural development, creating policies and promoting change through various initiatives.
Mr. Mazhar Qayyum Awan, Director Alumni Affairs, USEFP formally opened the 5th Annual Humphrey Alumni Conference by appreciating the efforts of Humphrey family for making this world a better place to live with their support and services. The three day conference featured esteemed speakers who emphasized the need for public-centric policing, investment in women’s empowerment projects, and digital transformation to promote diversity. Alumni from various fields shared their perspectives on the role of education, financial inclusion, and social responsibility in creating an equitable society.
OPENING AND DAY 1 OF 5TH ANNUAL HUMPHREY ALUMNI CONFERENCE
Opening Remarks by Secretary Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training Mr. Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani
Mr. Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Secretary Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training highlighted the significance of programs facilitating Pakistani students and civil servants to visit the United States for learning experiences. He emphasized the importance of knowledge exchange, stating that it’s an investment in the future, and urged those who have benefited from such programs to give back to Pakistan. Mr. Wani also stressed the concept of social responsibility, stating that it is incumbent upon individuals, regardless of their sector or role, to contribute to society beyond their professional duties. He encouraged engagement in volunteer work, collaboration with government initiatives, and partnerships with non-profit organizations.
Address of U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Mr. Donald Blome
U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Mr. Donald Blome graced the occasion of 5th annual meet-up of Humphrey alumni as a chief guest. Talking about the significance of this professional fellowship, Mr. Blome marked, “Each of you were chosen for this conference because you demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility. You are making your communities, Pakistan, the United States, and the world a better place. And – along with the other 44,000 PUAN members from dozens of other U.S. exchange programs – you are helping to address some of the world’s biggest challenges.” Read more here.
Remarks by Executive Director USEFP-Rita Akhtar
Speaking at the conference, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said, “This conference is a testament to the commitment of our alumni to social responsibility, education, ethics, inclusivity, and empowerment. We are proud of the work they are doing in their communities, and we are committed to supporting them in their efforts to create a better future for Pakistan.”
The three-day 5th Annual Humphrey Alumni Conference was a mix of engaging panel discussions, presentations, expert talks and narrations of first-hand experiences of alumni allowing the participants to have an opportunity to learn about recent research and network with others who share their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
TALKS SESSION 1: EDUCATION, INCLUSION AND YOUTH
Throughout the conference, attendees delved into critical topics such as education, inclusion, and youth empowerment. Dr. Salman Shahzad shared his journey of resilience, emphasizing the need to support today’s youth in navigating life’s challenges. Ms. Bushra Jamal underscored the importance of inclusive education, advocating for collaborative efforts to ensure quality learning opportunities for all.
Dr. Itbar Khan shed light on the plight of transgender individuals in Pakistan, emphasizing the urgency of inclusive educational initiatives. Meanwhile, Dr. Ehtasham Anwar explored the role of corporate social responsibility in promoting education and breaking down societal barriers.
ALUMNI IMPACT AWARDS SESSION 1-COMMUNITY PROJECTS FOR PUBLIC GOOD
The conference also showcased the remarkable impact of Humphrey alumni through community focused Alumni Impact Award projects aimed at driving positive change. From transforming English teaching in remote areas to promoting women’s health and hygiene, these projects exemplified the spirit of social responsibility and grassroots activism.
Ms. Bakht Zamina’s initiative on menstrual health management in Balochistan communities and Mr. Shah Muhammad Khan’s innovative approach to public policy design were among the standout projects celebrated during the event as both speakers narrated the first hand experiences of implementation of these initiatives. Additionally, Ms. Shumaila Aijaz Memon’s efforts to challenge gender stereotypes through linguistics and Dr. Salman Shahzad’s work in youth substance abuse prevention highlighted the diverse range of issues addressed by the Humphrey fellows.
As the day one of the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to driving positive change in their communities. The 5th Annual Humphrey Alumni Conference served as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility in shaping a brighter future for Pakistan.
Through their collective efforts, Humphrey alumni continue to inspire hope and drive meaningful progress, embodying the ethos of the Pakistan-U.S. partnership in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
