ISLAMABAD, Monday, July 21, 2025 (WNP): The Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and Pathfinder International signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday to collaborate across critical areas including public health, climate resilience, gender equity, social protection, and urban resilience in a strategic move to accelerate progress on inclusive development in Pakistan.

The agreement sets a framework for future cooperation, uniting SDPI’s policy expertise with Pathfinder’s global experience in health systems strengthening and women’s empowerment. The partnership aims to drive evidence-based policy innovation and support community-driven initiatives, particularly targeting marginalized and vulnerable populations.

“This partnership reflects SDPI’s commitment to advancing cross-sectoral collaboration to promote inclusive development solutions in Pakistan,” said Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI. “Together with Pathfinder, we aim to deepen policy conversations around health, gender, and climate resilience through both research and on-ground action.”

The MoU outlines joint efforts in reproductive health, climate adaptation, urban policy reform, and social equity, with both organizations pledging to co-develop programs that tackle intersecting development challenges in Pakistan’s urban and rural settings.

A representative from Pathfinder International underscored the importance of leveraging SDPI’s policy influence to strengthen on-the-ground health and gender equity programming. “Our shared vision is to strengthen systems that protect and empower communities—especially women and youth—as they face climate disruptions and social vulnerabilities,” the representative stated.

With over 60 years of global experience, Pathfinder International brings a wealth of practical expertise to the partnership, while SDPI’s robust policy research platform provides a strong foundation for advocacy and reform.

The partnership is expected to launch collaborative initiatives and research publications in the coming months, contributing to Pakistan’s broader development goals and the global Sustainable Development Agenda.