Alkhidmat Disaster Management Program successfully organized a specialized event titled A Way Forward 2.0 Gateway to INSARAG, marking a significant milestone in strengthening urban search and rescue capabilities across the country.
The primary focus of the training initiative was to enhance the technical skills of frontline responders. Thirty-five selected participants received intensive hands-on instruction on advanced rescue vehicle equipment, while Alkhidmat Foundation officially showcased its newly acquired, state-of-the-art rescue gear designed for rapid deployment during complex urban disasters.
High-Level Representation and Recognized Leadership
The event brought together key leadership figures from leading international organizations, national disaster management bodies, and regional emergency services.
Prominent figures and dignitaries who attended and addressed the gathering included:
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Mr Gift Chatora Deputy Country Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs UNOCHA in Pakistan
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Col Raza Iqbal Senior Director of Plans at NDMA Pakistan and Chairperson of INSARAG Asia Pacific
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Syed Waqas Jafri Secretary General of Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan
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Prof Dr M Zahid Latif Chairman of Alkhidmat Health Foundation
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Ikram ul Haq Subhani President of Alkhidmat Central Punjab and Assistant Secretary General of AKFP
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Dr Farhan Khalid Representative from Rescue 1122 Punjab
Commending Alkhidmat Role in National and International Relief
Distinguished key speakers praised Alkhidmat Foundation for its selfless dedication, operational efficiency, and rapid response mechanisms during major catastrophes both within Pakistan and in international crisis zones.
Chief Guest Col Raza Iqbal and UNOCHA Representative Mr Gift Chatora specifically commended Alkhidmat for aligning its emergency rescue protocols with global standards established by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group INSARAG.
Their speeches highlighted the critical role that well equipped, highly trained civil society organizations play alongside state agencies during large scale urban emergencies.
Future Operational Roadmap and Event Conclusion
During his closing remarks, Secretary General Syed Waqas Jafri expressed deep gratitude to all international guests, government officials, and emergency personnel for their continued collaboration.
He outlined Alkhidmat’s long-term vision to further expand its technical rescue fleet, upgrade local disaster management hubs, and maintain an elite corps of trained volunteers capable of responding to emergencies worldwide.
The landmark event concluded with a formal presentation ceremony, where certificates of completion were awarded to the thirty-five trainees alongside commemorative souvenirs distributed to honoring distinguished guests and partner agencies.
