UNICEF, UNDP, and UNFPA, along with the School of Leadership Foundation, recently conducted a four-day Policy Research Challenge (PRC) Bootcamp in Islamabad. The bootcamp was designed to help young researchers to develop the skills and knowledge they need to become effective researchers & policy-makers, with a focus on climate adaptation.
The bootcamp brought together 12 teams of researchers from across Pakistan where they learned tips and techniques of conducting effective on-ground research, the policy-making process, and how to present their findings to policymakers and relevant stakeholders. Along with working on the real-world climate challenges, the participants delved deeper into the knowledge of extracting policy statements and suggestions from the findings generated from research proposals.
Beyond individual growth, the event facilitated valuable networking opportunities by meeting subject experts, connecting like-minded young researchers driven by a shared passion for making a positive impact.
The judges and observers honored the event with their presence, including Ghazala Farid, Social and Behavior Change Officer at UNICEF, Aftab Alam Khan, Climate change expert and CEO of Resilient Future International, Dr. Inayat Ali, Head of the Public Health Department at Fatimah Jinnah Women University, Mome Saleem, Program Specialist in Adolescent Development and Participation UNICEF and Jahangir from UNDP (Full name and designation) and Rabia Pasha (UNFPA + DESIGNATION)
“The bootcamp was incredibly helpful for us in creating research proposals. The practical guidance and expert advice was valuable, enabling us to develop effective proposals to tackle real-world issues” said one of the participants of the bootcamp. Add more during the bootcamp.” – Mehmoona Malik, a participant.
Out of 12 participants, 6 were selected as winners: Shahid Kamal, Abrar Roonjha, Muniza Imran Moeed, Uzair ul Haq, Muhammad Majid Ali, Memoona Malik & Shehryar Ali, Misbah Rafique & Amna Sajjad who were granted up to Rs.500,000. They presented their brilliant ideas on themes such as Infrastructure, Resilient communities especially marginalized segments, Enhancing Climate Resilience through school education, Clean water, Agriculture and Health (Mental Health & SRHR).
“Policy Research Challenge Bootcamp has proven immensely beneficial for researchers, contributing significantly to the refinement of their ideas. These individuals are not just participants; they represent the future leaders in their respective fields. The bootcamp has equipped them with essential skills and insights, fostering their potential to make impactful contributions to policy research and development.” – Aftab Alam Khan, Climate change expert and CEO of Resilient Future International.
For additional information, please contact:
Samia Afridi at samia@solf.org.pk
About SoLF:
Learn more at @solforgpk (Twitter, Instagram and Facebook)
SoLF is Pakistan’s leading societal development organization that nurtures projects in the areas of Education, Citizenship & Peace, Youth Development, Disaster Management, and Health. It is widely recognized for its breakthrough ideas, creative communication, memorable facilitation, and valuable outcomes.
