Inclusion in Action: PRCS Commemorates the International Day of Persons with Disabilities

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On December 3, 2025, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), with the valued support of the Norwegian Red Cross, commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities through two impactful and inclusive events held in Dera Ismail Khan and Tank districts. The activities reflected PRCS’s strong commitment to promoting inclusion, dignity, equality, and empowerment for persons with disabilities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Celebrating Ability and Talent in D.I. Khan

In D.I. Khan, more than 50 persons with disabilities actively participated in a vibrant program featuring sports and arts activities, including cricket matches, wheelchair races, and poetry sessions. These activities provided participants with an opportunity to showcase their talents, build confidence, and foster teamwork in an encouraging and inclusive environment.

To further support and empower participants, essential assistive and educational items were distributed, including wheelchairs, school uniforms, trophies, and medals. The initiative aimed not only to meet immediate needs but also to recognize the abilities and potential of persons with disabilities, reinforcing their role as active and valued members of society.

Awareness and Advocacy in Tank

In Tank, an awareness-focused event brought together teachers, students, key stakeholders, and eight specially invited persons with disabilities. The session highlighted the importance of accessibility, social inclusion, and equal opportunities, while encouraging collective responsibility toward supporting persons with disabilities.

During the event, support packages and commemorative shields were distributed. Stakeholders also pledged continued assistance, including support for disability registration, improved access to services, and sustained advocacy efforts to ensure a more inclusive community environment.

A Commitment to Inclusion and Dignity

Through these meaningful initiatives, PRCS reaffirmed its dedication to inclusive humanitarian action, ensuring that no one is left behind. The observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities served as a powerful reminder that empowerment begins with recognition, participation, and equal access to opportunities.

PRCS remains committed to working with partners, communities, and stakeholders to promote inclusion, resilience, and dignity for all, especially the most vulnerable segments of society.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Red Crescent Holds Farewell Ceremony for Former Provincial Secretary Syed Ali Hassan Khan

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The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Red Crescent Society held a heartfelt farewell ceremony in honor of former provincial secretary Syed Ali Hassan Khan, under the chairmanship of Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, Chairman PRCS KP.

The event was attended by Board Member Azra Jamshed Karim (Honorary Treasurer), Usama Yawar, and district secretaries from across the province, reflecting the high esteem in which Mr. Syed Ali Hassan Khan is held within the organization.

During the ceremony, participants paid tribute to his decades of dedicated service, professional guidance, and exemplary administrative leadership. A farewell party was also organized, where speakers highlighted his visionary leadership, tireless efforts in organizational development, and unwavering commitment to the humanitarian mission of PRCS.

Addressing the gathering, Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir said,

“The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Red Crescent will always cherish the decades of service, excellent leadership, and practical role of Syed Ali Hassan Khan.”

In a gesture of respect and appreciation, Syed Ali Hassan Khan was presented with a shawl, shield, and chador by PRCS KP, symbolizing gratitude for his contributions. In return, he honored Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir with a chador and Pakol topi, in keeping with Pakhtun traditions.

The farewell ceremony celebrated a legacy of leadership, dedication, and service, leaving a lasting mark on the PRCS KP community. With warm wishes, the organization bid him farewell, expressing hopes for his happiness and continued success in the future.

PRCS KP and ICRC Successfully Conclude 2-Day Safety & Security Training for Security Staff

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The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (PRCS KP), in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), successfully concluded a two-day Safety & Security Training for security guards and drivers from the Provincial Headquarters and District Branches. The training, held on 2–3 December 2025, brought together 25 participants to enhance operational safety and preparedness across PRCS KP.

The program featured a comprehensive agenda covering key areas critical for the safety and efficiency of security and driving personnel:

  • PRCS Safety & Security SOPs & MSRs

  • Security awareness, personal safety, and threat identification

  • Field movement and convoy safety

  • Road safety and defensive driving

  • Explosive hazard safety and weapon contamination

  • Stress management techniques

  • Roles and responsibilities of security guards

  • Fire safety and basic firefighting

  • First Aid for security staff and drivers

  • Incident reporting and communication protocols

  • Practical exercises and simulations, including fire response, first aid scenarios, and evacuation drills

Mr. Arif, Safety & Security Manager PRCS Merged Areas, facilitated the core safety and security sessions, sharing practical insights and field-based knowledge. ICRC WeC Officer Mr. Ijaz delivered a critical session on Weapon Contamination, while Deputy Director First Aid Programme Mr. Sajid Ali Khan conducted a hands-on First Aid training for all participants.

The training was honored by the presence of Chairman PRCS KP, Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, and Acting Provincial Secretary, Dr. Iftikhar, at both the opening and closing ceremonies. Chairman Wazir highlighted the importance of equipping security and driver staff with essential skills to ensure safe operations and protect personnel, assets, and communities across the province.

A special acknowledgment was extended to PRCS Merged Areas Branch for their continuous technical support and facilitation, which played a key role in the success of the training.

Through initiatives like this, PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to strengthen the capacity, preparedness, and resilience of its personnel, ensuring that humanitarian operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and professionally.

PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Holds Staff Meeting to Review Activities and Strengthen Service Delivery

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A staff meeting of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch was held under the chairmanship of Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, Chairman PRCS KP, to review ongoing activities, relief operations, and strategies for making the organization’s public service mission more effective.

During the meeting, participants discussed the progress of current humanitarian initiatives and emergency response operations, while also identifying areas for improvement to enhance efficiency and outreach. Emphasis was placed on strengthening coordination among departments to ensure timely and impactful service delivery to vulnerable communities across the province.

Addressing the staff, Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir reaffirmed the organization’s strong commitment to teamwork, transparency, and accountability. He highlighted that collective effort, clear communication, and integrity are key to improving humanitarian outcomes and building public trust.

The Chairman encouraged staff to continue working with dedication and professionalism, emphasizing that PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will remain focused on quality service delivery, rapid response during emergencies, and community-centered humanitarian action.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to further enhance operational effectiveness and uphold the core humanitarian principles of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society in serving humanity across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities Observed with Inclusive Spirit in Swat

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The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (PRCS KP), in collaboration with the District Administration, Social Welfare Department, and Special Education Complex Swat, marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)—also known as World Disability Day—at the Special Education School Shagai, Saidu Sharif, Swat.

Observed globally on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities emphasizes the need to remove social and physical barriers, promote inclusion, and ensure equal rights and opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). This year’s theme,
“Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress,”
served as a guiding principle for all activities conducted during the event.

In line with the theme, a range of engaging and awareness-focused activities were organized to encourage positive community interaction and highlight the abilities and resilience of PWDs. These included an awareness walk, inclusive games, and a talent showcase by persons with disabilities, where participants confidently displayed their skills and creativity. Mine victims shared their inspiring life stories, offering powerful messages of courage, resilience, and hope.

 

The program also featured a disability inclusion session, a message wall allowing participants to express solidarity and support, and the distribution of Risk Awareness and Safe Behavior (RASB) IEC materials, aimed at increasing community understanding of safety and inclusion.

The event was attended by representatives from various government departments, community elders, teachers, along with PRCS staff and volunteers. Their collective presence reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing disability rights, improving accessibility, and fostering an environment of dignity and respect for persons with disabilities across Swat.

PRCS, in coordination with ICRC, reiterated its unwavering dedication to promoting an inclusive, respectful, and supportive society for persons with disabilities, in harmony with the global spirit of World Disability Day.

Through such initiatives, PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to advocate for inclusion, empowerment, and social progress—ensuring that no one is left behind.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities Marked with Inclusive and Empowering Event in District Hangu

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The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was observed with dignity and enthusiasm at the Social Welfare Office, District Hangu, through a meaningful and inclusive event aimed at highlighting the abilities, potential, and equal status of persons with disabilities (PWDs) as valued members of society.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Provincial Coordinator PRCS RASB Program Mr. Zubair Samad, AAC Revenue Mr. Sajjad Ahmed Jamal, District Social Welfare Officer Mr. Amjad Afridi, President PWD Mr. Faraz Paracha, and BDU Representative Mr. Waliullah, along with other community focal persons. Their presence reflected strong institutional and community support for disability inclusion and empowerment.

More than 65 persons with disabilities actively and enthusiastically participated in the program. A range of fun-filled, motivational, and educational activities added energy and inspiration to the event. Competitions such as tug of war, wheelchair races, speech contests, and poetry recitals provided participants with a platform to showcase their talents, confidence, and resilience.

The PRCS Kohat Branch played a key role in encouraging participation by awarding prizes to outstanding performers and presenting certificates to the PWD Cabinet, recognizing their leadership and contributions toward disability advocacy in the district.

During the program, District Program Officer Ms. Iman Malik shared valuable insights into PRCS humanitarian services, highlighting ongoing initiatives focused on the welfare, protection, and inclusion of persons with disabilities. A dedicated Risk Awareness & Behavior (RAB) session was also conducted by PRCS, raising awareness about safety risks and preventive measures. One mine victim shared his inspiring personal journey and paid tribute to PRCS for its continued support and assistance, leaving a lasting impact on participants.

In the closing remarks, the District Administration and President PWD Mr. Faraz Paracha appreciated the Pakistan Red Crescent Society for its remarkable cooperation, dedication, and consistent efforts in promoting inclusion and dignity for persons with disabilities.

The event not only raised awareness but also stood as a powerful symbol of inclusion, respect, and empowerment, reinforcing the collective commitment to building a society where no one is left behind.

PRCS KP and ICRC Conclude 2-Day Safety & Security Training for Security Guards and Drivers

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The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), successfully concluded a two-day Safety & Security Training for security guards and drivers on 2–3 December 2025. The training brought together 25 participants from the PRCS Provincial Headquarters and District Branches, aiming to strengthen safety awareness and operational preparedness across PRCS KP.

The comprehensive training program focused on enhancing participants’ knowledge and practical skills to ensure safe and secure humanitarian operations. Throughout the two days, participants actively engaged in a wide range of critical sessions, including:

  • PRCS Safety & Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Minimum Security Requirements (MSRs)

  • Security awareness, personal safety, and threat identification

  • Field movement planning and convoy safety

  • Road safety and defensive driving techniques

  • Explosive hazard safety and weapon contamination awareness

  • Stress management in high-risk environments

  • Roles and responsibilities of security guards

  • Fire safety and basic firefighting

  • First Aid for security staff and drivers

  • Incident reporting and communication protocols

  • Practical exercises and simulations, including fire response, first aid scenarios, and evacuation drills

The core safety and security sessions were facilitated by Mr. Arif, Safety & Security Manager PRCS Merged Areas, who shared valuable field-based insights and best practices. An important session on Weapon Contamination was delivered by ICRC WeC Officer Mr. Ijaz, while Mr. Sajid Ali Khan, Deputy Director First Aid Programme, conducted a detailed and hands-on First Aid training for participants.

The training was further honored by the presence of Chairman PRCS KP, Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, and Acting Provincial Secretary, Dr. Iftikhar, who attended both the opening and closing ceremonies. Addressing the participants, the Chairman emphasized the critical role of well-trained security and driving staff in ensuring the safety of personnel, assets, and beneficiaries, particularly in challenging operational environments across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

PRCS KP also extended special appreciation to the PRCS Merged Areas Branch for their continued facilitation and technical support, which played a key role in the successful organization of the training.

Through initiatives like this, PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains committed to building the capacity of its staff, strengthening safety culture, and ensuring effective and secure humanitarian service delivery across the province.

World Disability Day Program Held at Government Boys High School, Tank

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A World Disability Day awareness program was successfully organized at Government Boys High School, Tank, with the aim of promoting understanding, inclusion, and respect for persons with disabilities. The event served as an important platform to highlight the rights, abilities, and potential of persons with disabilities and to encourage an inclusive mindset among students and the wider community.

The program was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including the Additional Assistant Commissioner (AAC) Tank Headquarters, the Head of the Social Welfare Department, and the District Education Officer (Female), Tank, who attended as chief guests. Their participation reflected strong government support for initiatives that promote social inclusion and equal opportunities for all.

School staff, teachers, and students actively participated in the event, demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment to learning about disability-related issues. Speakers emphasized the importance of removing social barriers, ensuring equal access to education, and fostering an environment where persons with disabilities are treated with dignity and respect.

The event highlighted key messages of awareness, inclusion, and empowerment, encouraging students to become advocates for positive change within their communities. Through such programs, educational institutions play a vital role in shaping attitudes and building a more compassionate and inclusive society.

The World Disability Day program concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to support the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities and to work collectively toward a society where no one is left behind.

PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Holds Key Coordination Meeting Under the Chairmanship of Farzand Ali Wazir

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A high-level meeting of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch was held under the chairmanship of Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, Chairman PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bringing together senior leadership and key stakeholders to review ongoing activities and future priorities.

The meeting was attended by Ms. Azra Jamshed Karim, Member and Honorary Treasurer, representatives of National Societies, Secretary General Mr. Obaidullah Khan, and officials from the PRCS National Headquarters. The presence of senior leadership highlighted the importance of coordination and strategic planning to further strengthen humanitarian operations in the province.

During the meeting, various organizational and operational issues were discussed in detail. Participants reviewed the current humanitarian situation and assessed the effectiveness of PRCS interventions, particularly the relief and response activities carried out for flood-affected communities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The participants highly appreciated the timely actions, dedication, and impact of the KP Red Crescent’s relief efforts in supporting vulnerable families during emergencies.

Representatives from the National Headquarters commended the provincial branch’s performance and reaffirmed their full support for both ongoing and upcoming projects. They emphasized continued collaboration to enhance disaster preparedness, emergency response, and community-based humanitarian programs in the province.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir reaffirmed PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service. He stated that the organization will continue to advance its mission of public service with greater determination, focusing on timely relief, community resilience, and support for the most vulnerable populations.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to further strengthen coordination, expand humanitarian initiatives, and uphold the core principles of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society in serving humanity across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

PRCS Organizes PGI Stakeholders Meeting in D.I. Khan to Strengthen Inclusive Community Action

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The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Provincial Headquarters, in collaboration with its District Branches in Dera Ismail Khan (D.I. Khan) and Tank, successfully organized a Protection, Gender, and Inclusion (PGI) Stakeholders Meeting in D.I. Khan. The meeting marked an important milestone in strengthening coordination and collaboration among key stakeholders working to address protection and inclusion challenges across the two districts.

The session brought together a diverse and influential group of participants, including representatives from government departments, academic institutions, and humanitarian organizations. Government representation included the Office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Tank, Health Department Tank, Police Department D.I. Khan, Social Welfare Department D.I. Khan, and the Education Department Tank. Their participation highlighted the importance of institutional ownership and inter-departmental coordination in advancing inclusive and rights-based approaches.

Academic and specialized institutions also played a vital role in the discussion. Representatives from Gomal University’s Psychology Department and the Department of Solace Autism and Rehabilitation shared insights on mental health, psychosocial support, and the needs of persons with disabilities—key components of effective PGI programming.

The meeting further benefited from the active engagement of leading humanitarian and development organizations, including SAHARA, SHARP, Sarhad Rural Support Programme (SRSP), Veer Development Foundation, Sabawon, Aghosh AlKhidmat Foundation, and WWF Pakistan. These organizations shared experiences, best practices, and ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and promoting social inclusion.

Through open dialogue and collaborative planning, participants emphasized the need for a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to address protection risks, gender disparities, and barriers to inclusion. The meeting reinforced a shared commitment to ensuring dignity, access, safety, and meaningful participation for all, particularly women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

This PGI stakeholders meeting represents a significant step toward unified action in the D.I. Khan and Tank region. PRCS reaffirmed its dedication to working closely with government, academia, and civil society to build stronger, more inclusive communities—ensuring that no one is left behind.