Islamabad: A delegation of 14 officers from the 43rd Mid-Career Management Course (MCMC) at the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), Islamabad, visited the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Headquarters on Wednesday as part of their field research initiative. The delegation, led by Additional Directing Staff, Dr. Syeda Faiza Urooj, was received by Chairperson BISP, Senator Rubina Khalid, and Secretary BISP, Amer Ali Ahmad.
The primary objective of the visit was to gain firsthand insight into BISP's operational framework, institutional structure, and its pivotal role in implementing social protection programs nationwide, aimed at uplifting Pakistan's most vulnerable populations.
In her address to the visiting officers, Senator Rubina Khalid highlighted that BISP embodies the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, providing a national identity and social recognition to millions of underprivileged women. She emphasized that BISP's biometric verification system ensures transparency, accountability, and enhances the mobility and empowerment of its beneficiaries. The Chairperson described BISP as a "transformational programme" and a "game-changer" in the realm of social protection.
Senator Rubina Khalid further underscored that BISP adheres strictly to the principles of transparency, accountability, and dignity, in line with the directives of the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary BISP Amer Ali Ahmad reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to supporting the most deserving segments of society through BISP. He noted that financial assistance is disbursed directly to female members of qualifying households, a pioneering approach that promotes women's central role within their families. He also appreciated the value of professional training programs like MCMC, which empower officers to translate their knowledge into practical solutions and communicate ideas clearly and effectively.
Earlier in the session, Dr. Tahir Noor, Additional Secretary BISP, provided a comprehensive briefing on BISP's institutional framework, its expansive nationwide presence, and its core objectives. Secretary BISP outlined key initiatives of the organization, including its flagship programs: Benazir Kafaalat, Benazir Taleemi Wazaif, Benazir Nashonuma, the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER), the new digital payment model, and Benazir Hunarmand Program.
An interactive QandA session followed the briefing, during which MCMC officers actively engaged with BISP officials and raised queries on the Programme's policy and operational aspects.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Syeda Faiza Urooj thanked the BISP leadership for their comprehensive presentation and commended the Programme's impactful work in addressing poverty, with a special focus on the economic empowerment of women.
A commemorative shield was presented to Chairperson BISP on behalf of NIPA.