Safdar Hussain came to IDSP 22 years ago with a degree in computer science and a vision to uplift the local communities, looking for support and guidance to realize his vision. Recognizing the potential of Safdar’s vision, a symbiotic alliance was forged. It was not merely about providing resources but fostering an ecosystem where ideas could germinate and flourish. The result of this collaboration stands tall today in the shape of the University of Community Development (UCD), sprawled across eight acres, a testament to the boundless possibilities that emerge when vision gets the required support and appreciation. The story of Safdar and the University of Community Development underscores a profound truth – the essence of transformative change lies in investing in individuals. By empowering them, instilling belief, and providing platforms, we catalyze a ripple effect that reverberates far beyond the confines of institutions and boundaries.

The journey from a singular vision to a transformative impact on human development is intricate and awe-inspiring. It underscores the power of investing in ideas and the individuals behind them. The story of Safdar Hussain and the Institute for Development Studies and Practices (IDSP) stands as a beacon, illuminating the indomitable spirit of leadership and the cascading effects of nurturing human potential. IDSP was founded by Dr. Quratulain Bakhteari in 1998 and was designed to operate independently of the government or academic framework. The institute provides basic education and teaches the youth from vulnerable segments of society about aspects of community development, organizational development, and grassroots collaboration and cooperation, and it serves their respective communities.

Dr. Bakhteari’s vision resonates with the philosophy of the Eco-Leaders project implemented by Accountability Lab. The Eco-Leaders initiative is dedicated to Fostering youth Leadership in Climate Change Mitigation through Capacity Building and Collective Action. The initiative empowers youth to play their role in social development effectively by building their capacity for leadership, community resilience, climate mitigation, and community development. The initiative also addresses the need for more capacity, tools, resources, and platforms among young Pakistanis to drive climate change actions. By focusing on building the capacity of young community leaders from across Pakistan and connecting them for collective learning and action, the project focuses on empowering youth to become leaders in climate change initiatives. By establishing a network of informed and empowered young leaders, the project envisions a future where young Pakistanis are at the forefront of climate change actions, driving sustainable practices, influencing policies, and positively impacting local communities. View video.

Within every community lies a reservoir of potential, especially in its youth. Our initiative focuses on creating supportive environments where young individuals can envision and pursue their aspirations with robust backing. This endeavor goes beyond traditional development; it’s about nurturing future leaders and fostering a culture of growth. As part of the Eco-Leaders Initiative, Accountability Lab recently arranged a three-day boot camp at the University of Balochistan Quetta and a visit to IDSP’s University of Community Development (UCD) at Hanna Road, Quetta. The visit was arranged to allow the students to interact with the local communities and understand local climate challenges and how these challenges can be mitigated on the community level through rightly developed grassroots leadership.

During the visit to the University of Community Development, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Quratulain Bakhteari, a social entrepreneur and founder of the Institute of Development Studies and Practice (IDSP). Below are a few takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Bakhteari regarding her view on Prioritizing Human Development:

Prioritizing Personal Development:

Our approach deviates from traditional educational frameworks at the University of Community Development (UCD). Rather than fitting individuals into a fixed curriculum, we tailor our resources to nurture their unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Given that many of our applicants come from marginalized communities across Balochistan, we offer a complimentary residency program to ensure accessibility. View video.

Reimagining Education:

Traditional educational systems often stifle the dreams of countless youth, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. Whether due to language barriers, financial constraints, or academic performance, these systems frequently exclude rather than include. By doing so, they rob many of the opportunity to dream and grow. Our admission criteria don’t hinge on past qualifications or grades but center entirely on the individual’s idea, vision, and determination.

Championing Dreams:

When individuals entrust us with their aspirations, we must champion them wholeheartedly. Every dream, like Safdar Hussain’s, holds the potential to catalyze transformative change. At UCD, our faith lies not in a rigid curriculum but in the boundless potential of our students. We’re committed to nurturing their visions and ensuring they evolve as leaders and innovators.

Unlocking Potential:

Tragically, many youths in Balochistan and Pakistan find their aspirations stifled by societal expectations and conventional norms. The resultant loss is twofold: we forfeit transformative leaders and cultivate passive followers. I firmly believe in the pivotal roles of parents and educators as allies, guiding youth toward realizing their visions. Yet, it’s imperative to challenge and reform traditional educational structures that overshadow individual dreams. IDSP enrolls and nurtures 40-50 community leaders and their initiatives annually. The youth from the most marginalized communities of Balochistan are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and resilience to lead initiatives that resonate with purpose and passion. At the IDSP, these young individuals are not just beneficiaries of an academic curriculum but torch-bearers of change, poised to improve the lives of local communities with their dreams and passion.

The Crucial Role of Civil Society:

Organizations like the Accountability Lab play a pivotal and often challenging role. Civil society is tasked with reaching the most marginalized communities—those whose dreams are marginalized by formal structures. It’s our collective responsibility to ensure these individuals access the resources and support they need to lead and inspire their communities.

Youth and Climate Action:

In the face of escalating climate challenges, community-based youth leadership emerges as a beacon of hope, especially in regions like Balochistan, where the impacts of climate change are acutely felt. Balochistan, with its unique ecological makeup, has been grappling with intensified and unpredictable weather patterns, flash flooding, dwindling water resources, and reduced agricultural production. However, its youth’s vibrant energy and innovative spirit can play a pivotal role in charting a sustainable path forward. By empowering young leaders at the community level, the Eco-Leadership initiative is harnessing fresh perspectives and localized solutions that are attuned to Balochistan’s specific needs. These youth leaders, equipped with grassroots insights and a deep-rooted connection to their land, can drive initiatives ranging from water conservation projects to sustainable agricultural practices. Their involvement fosters resilience within communities and a collective ethos of stewardship, ensuring sustainable development and uplift of the local communities.

As we navigate the intricate tapestry of human development, let stories like Safdar’s inspire us. Let us recognize the unparalleled power of investing in individuals, for they are the architects of a future brimming with promise, potential, and prosperity. Invest in individuals, champion their visions, and together, let us sculpt a world where every dream finds its wings. Accountability Lab’s commitment to human development with a particular focus on youth echoes through the Eco-Leaders Initiative.

For further details about the initiative, please visit: https://bit.ly/Eco-Leaders_Accountabilitylab and https://www.facebook.com/accountlabpk/.

Asif Farooqui