The Pakistan Orphan Care Forum, in partnership with the Zakat Foundation of America, held a two-day capacity building workshop in Islamabad on January 14 and 15, 2026 to strengthen orphan care across Pakistan. Representatives from orphan care organisations across the country attended sessions designed to build practical skills, improve coordination and promote shared standards in orphan care delivery.
Muhammad Al-Khayyam, General Secretary of the Pakistan Orphan Care Forum, opened the workshop by emphasising the need for stronger coordination, professional development and common standards among orphan care institutions. Fazal ur Rehman, Country Director of the Zakat Foundation of America, welcomed participants and reiterated the foundation’s commitment to providing sustainable and dignified support for orphans based on field experience.
The first day addressed sector trends and operational priorities. Umair Hasan from Islamic Relief Worldwide discussed global humanitarian trends and emerging fundraising challenges and opportunities, offering context for local fundraising strategies. A faith-based session led by Molana Muhammad Naeem Sahib highlighted Islamic teachings on orphan care and moral responsibility. Shazia Naveed of READ-UK focused on child rights and protection, including safeguarding policies and ethical compliance, while practical training on fundraising and proposal writing for orphan sponsorship projects was provided by Mian Tufail Ahmad Sahib and Shazia Naz of Zakat Foundation of America.
The second day centred on reflection and planning. A recap led by POCF and ZFA teams consolidated key learnings and identified next steps for improving orphan care services. Shahnaz Kosar spoke on spiritual and character development of orphans, and Shahzeb Hanif from the READ Foundation presented strategies to enhance academic performance and examination outcomes for children in care. An experience-sharing session moderated by M. Irfan Bashir and Syeda Qanita allowed organisations to present their models, exchange ideas and explore collaborative opportunities.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks by Muhammad Al-Khayyam and Fazal ur Rehman, distribution of certificates, an evaluation of the programme and identification of future action points. Participants offered collective prayers and expressed appreciation for the practical guidance provided.
Attendees described the training as highly beneficial for strengthening networks and enhancing professional skills in orphan care. Many noted that the workshop renewed their motivation to serve children with greater dedication, professionalism and compassion, and pledged to implement the learning to raise quality and consistency across orphan care services in Pakistan.
