The popular EIVP UNV Programme saw the year out with a Closing Ceremony at ERRA's new Headquarters, on 30th December 2008. The programme, launched in early 2008 to encourage young people to participate in the Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of the earthquake areas, and foster a spirit of service and social responsibility, had its first intake in July, 08.
The 26 participants in the EIVP Pilot Programme, and 14 in the following United Nations Volunteer component, worked in many key sectors of ERRA in headquarters and in the field. Volunteers in both intakes found the experience deeply rewarding from both a personal and professional perspective and their contribution has been highly valued by ERRA management. The participation of UNV brought a new element to the programme and their support was extremely beneficial.
Volunteers reported their positive awareness of ERRA's challenges and many achievements had increased enormously after their exposure to the 'frontline' of the earthquake work. Most were surprised and impressed at number and high quality of the facilities they visited across the affected areas and the huge number of reconstructed houses. By inspecting the work first hand, learning about donor and governance procedures, and talking to the local people, they were also easily able to put to rest the many negative misconceptions that have circulated about progress. Many commented that facilities were, in many instances, superior to those in their own city.
The Federal Minister of Youth Affairs, at a Ceremony to mark International Volunteers Day on 5th December 2008, awarded National Volunteer Awards to three of the Volunteers, Sana Zulfiqar, Tahir Swati and Rana M. Rashid Qamar, along with myself. While this is a tremendous honour, I see such awards as a tribute to all the people who've worked with us on these projects EIVP has always been a team effort and the honour is to all involved.
Raising the profile and impacts of volunteering in Pakistan whether by young Pakistanis or overseas volunteers, is important and much needed. People can make such a huge contribution to the lives of others and make a genuine difference through donating time, intellect and energy in programmes such as EIVP. I have been involved in different aspects of volunteer projects for the earthquake-affected areas since 2005 and believe strongly in ERRA's work. Like so many others, I remain committed to its objectives to rehabilitate the region for the long term.
Establishing a programme like EIVP and working with such a committed group of professionals at ERRA, and the fantastic young participants in the programme has been a real pleasure. These young people have such great potential to make significant contributions to their communities and country in the future and I'm really looking forward to continuing to work with them, and new participants, on future initiatives.
The year ahead is a tough one with global economies in poor shape making funding much tighter for aid and development projects. However, the commitment to the principles of EIVP is in no way diminished and funding is being sought to continue the programme in 2009. The spirit of volunteering, and the commitment to improve the lives of the people of the affected communities, and to Pakistan itself, is alive and well.
