The UNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council (UPAC) convened its second meeting in Peshawar, bringing together council members to assess progress since their inaugural session. The gathering was chaired by Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, and leading philanthropist Murtaza Hashwani, and hosted by business leader Affan Aziz. Members used the forum to reflect on earlier commitments and reinforce a shared agenda for children across Pakistan.
Delegates held structured discussions on key thematic areas including health and nutrition, education, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), child protection, youth engagement and climate. The dialogue highlighted the interconnected nature of these priorities and the need for coordinated action to improve outcomes for children at both national and local levels.
Council participants agreed on concrete next steps to amplify their collective influence and advance children’s rights in Pakistan. Emphasis was placed on turning discussions into measurable action, strengthening partnerships across sectors, and mobilising philanthropic and business resources to support programme delivery, particularly in provinces such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where Peshawar is a key centre.
The meeting underscored UPAC’s role in bridging the expertise of the private sector and philanthropy with UNICEF Pakistan’s programme priorities. Members committed to follow-up engagement and regular review to ensure momentum is sustained and that children’s needs remain central to policy and investment decisions.
