Social protection system established to empower vulnerable segments: Baqar

Sindh caretaker chief minister Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar has urged the provincial authorities to remain firm in their collective resolve to establish a social protection system that empowers and safeguards the most vulnerable segments of society.

Speaking at a consultative seminar on social protection in the province that was held at a hotel on Wednesday, the interim CM expressed the significance of the seminar that focused on exploring ways to strengthen the social protection system in Sindh.

Baqar commended the efforts made in bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise. He thanked all the participants for their valuable contributions to the crucial dialogue, highlighting the collaborative spirit that is essential for the success of their collective endeavours.

He said the Sindh government provides effective social assistance and protection to the most vulnerable people in the province. He emphasised the crucial role of a well-coordinated and comprehensive social protection system in alleviating poverty and promoting equity among the diverse population of the province.

He also stressed the importance of being aware of the significant impact of our decisions on the lives of those who rely on these systems for their well-being.

He said that the discussions in the seminar and the associated documentation have shed light on the challenges existing within the current social protection framework. “These challenges include fragmentation across programmes, gaps in coverage, coordination deficiencies, targeting inefficiencies, and inadequacies in monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.”

He added that acknowledging these hurdles is the first step towards devising effective strategies to overcome them because our commitment is not merely a declaration but a call to action.

Baqar reaffirmed his strong commitment to reforming and consolidating social protection initiatives under the newly established Sindh Social Protection Authority. He said that this is a significant milestone in our journey towards progress.

He added that the creation of the social protection authority is evidence of the government’s determination to establish a streamlined, efficient and responsive system that meets the needs of people.

He also said he has instructed the social protection department to work with the authority to develop a comprehensive roadmap and action plan to translate the government’s commitment into tangible outcomes. The initiative aims to synchronise objectives, enhance targeting precision, rigorously monitor outcomes, and extend the reach of interventions, he added.

“Our collective mission requires the active involvement of government entities, development agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, media outlets and grassroots organisations,” said Baqar, adding that the discourse underscores the indispensable value of collaborative efforts. “It is through the strength of our partnerships that we can effectively address the complex challenges that lie ahead.”

He emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability by establishing efficient monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

He acknowledged the significance of constantly evaluating the impact of the government’s interventions, recognising areas that need improvement and adapting strategies to suit the evolving circumstances.

The iterative process ensures that our social protection system remains dynamic, responsive as well as effective in meeting the needs of our constituents, he said.

“As we embark on this transformative journey, we also recognise the importance of public awareness,” said Baqar, adding that clear communication about the reforms, their objectives, and the expected outcomes are crucial in fostering understanding and support among Sindh’s residents.

“It is through informed and engaged communities that the true impact of our social protection initiatives can be realised,” he said, adding that he wants to express his deep appreciation for the dedication and engagement of all participants in this critical cause.

Interim information and social protection minister Muhammad Ahmed Shah said on the occasion that when Baqar entrusted him with the social protection department, the caretaker CM emphasised the need to work for the underprivileged and marginalised classes in the province.

Shah said that the necessity for this department was keenly felt in 2022. The objective of this seminar is to bring together all the partners of the government, he added.

“We are not in an ideal situation, though it looks good on paper. In Sindh we are providing free medical treatment through the health system. In the education sector we are offering free education, but we need to assess if we are providing standardised education.”

He said that the provision of necessary items to students is in progress, and the aim is to improve relationships. He also said that real-time data should be provided. The provincial government has taken the lead in enacting laws, he added.

Those who spoke during different sessions of the seminar included Social Protection Secretary Rafiq Mustafa Shaikh, School Education Secretary Shireen Narejo, Social Protection Board Vice Chairman Haris Gazdar and Social Protection Authority CEO Sami Shaikh.

Food and Agriculture Organisation representative Emmanuel Moncada, Institute of Business Administration Karachi Dean Dr Asma Hyder and Benazir Income Support Programme Chairman Dr Amjad Saqib addressed the gathering through videoconferencing.