Abid Hussain Lashari, a PUAN alumnus, disability activist and founder of the National Disability & Development Forum (NDF), spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative to enhance the political participation of persons with disabilities in Nawabshah, Sindh. The project, funded by the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) Alumni Small Grant (ASG) program, aimed to educate and empower individuals with disabilities about their political rights and the Local Government Act 2021, which reserved 1% of seats for persons with disabilities.
Project Impact
The project successfully trained 30 persons with disabilities, providing them with the knowledge and skills to actively engage in the political process. As a result of the project, Nasir Hussain Ghori, a 28-year-old beneficiary, secured a nomination for General Counselor on a reserved seat in Local Body Elections. He is now working as General Counselor in Bandhi Town Committee. Another beneficiary, Ghulam Murtaza Mughairi, a 35-year-old resident of Village Ali Muhammad Mughairi near Sakrand also shared positive reviews about the training that he gained valuable information about his political and social rights as the project opened up networking opportunities and introduced him to entrepreneurship.
Collaboration and Support
Lashari expressed his gratitude for the collaborative support he received from the U.S. Mission and PUAN during the project’s implementation. He highlighted the guidance provided by the ASG team, the encouragement from PUAN Sukkur chapter leadership and USEFP Staff, and the participation of President Mr. Irfan Ali Soomro and Ex-President Mr. Anwar Ali Sial in the closing ceremony. He also acknowledged the valuable contribution of Faareha Fatima Manager Alumni Affairs- Sindh & Baluchistan, Public Diplomacy Section, U.S. Consulate General Karachi.
A Beacon of Hope
Lashari’s project stands as a beacon of hope for persons with disabilities in Pakistan. It demonstrates the transformative power of education, collaboration, and empowerment in fostering political inclusion and promoting the rights of marginalized communities. Through this initiative, Lashari has not only empowered individuals with disabilities but has also paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
