Centre of Excellence for Rural Development
Introduction
The Centre of Excellence for Rural Development (CERD) is a distinguished non-profit organization registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under Section 42 of the Companies Ordinance 1984. We are proudly certified by the Pakistan Centre of Philanthropy (PCP) as a credible civil society organization (CSO).
With a proven track record of delivering over $30 million in services across key sectorsHuman Rights and Protection, Rule of Law and Governance, Health & Nutrition, Education, WASH, Livelihood, and Food SecurityCERD is committed to fostering sustainable development in Pakistan. Our dedicated team operates from regional offices and consists of approx 272 skilled professionals who work tirelessly to uplift communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the newly merged districts. We maintain strong partnerships with government entities at both provincial and district levels to effectively implement our projects.
Comprehensive Services Offered
- Health & Nutrition: Ensuring access to vital healthcare and nutrition programs.
- Child Protection: Safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.
- WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene): Implementing projects to promote hygiene and provide clean water.
- Food and Non-Food Items: Distributing essential supplies to those in need.
- Shelter: Providing safe and secure housing solutions.
- Gender Services: Promoting gender equality and empowering women.
- Camp Coordination & Management: Facilitating effective management of displaced populations.
- Community Services: Engaging communities in various support initiatives.
- Vocational Training: Offering skill development programs to enhance livelihoods.
- Infrastructure Development: Building critical community infrastructure.
- Cash for Work and Livelihood Initiatives: Supporting income-generating activities.
— Our Mission
Our mission is to enhance the use of indigenous natural and human resources effectively. We work collaboratively with government entities, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to promote self-reliance and sustainability, ensuring a brighter future for all.
— Our Vision
We envision a future where human and institutional development excellence fosters a thriving, prosperous humanity. As a dedicated humanitarian and development organization, we aspire to create sustainable pathways that empower communities and uplifting lives.
— Objectives
- Conduct Action-Based Research: Develop tailored models and programs through comprehensive research to address community needs and drive impactful development.
- Enhance Socio-Economic Opportunities: Support the upliftment of rural and urban communities by increasing access to livelihood opportunities and choices, particularly in underprivileged areas.
- Empower Communities: Raise awareness and build capacity around human, civic, and political rights, fostering informed and engaged communities.
- Promote Health and Nutrition: Advocate for preventive and curative health practices among underserved populations, ensuring access to essential health and nutrition resources.
- Support Food Security Initiatives: Facilitate advancements in agriculture, horticulture, and livestock development to bolster food security and enhance community resilience.
- Aid in Disaster Management: Collaborate with government agencies to provide effective disaster management support, including rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts during and after emergencies.
Our Impact
Human Rights and Protection
CERD has initiated numerous programs focusing on the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly women and adolescents, in districts such as Peshawar, Nowshera, and Swat, as well as in the newly merged Mohmand, Khyber, and Kurram Agencies. Our camp management and community services ensure that internally displaced persons (IDPs) have access to essential needsshelter, food, health care, water, sanitation, and livelihood opportunities.
Health and Nutrition
Through our Mother & Child Health (MCH) project in Jarma Kohat, we address the primary and reproductive health needs of IDPs. Our Community-Based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) initiatives in Peshawar, Nowshera, Swat, and surrounding areas emphasize nutrition and health for communities affected by war and floods, with support from UNICEF and WFP.
Livelihoods and Infrastructure Development
In partnership with UNDP, our I-LIFE projects in Shangla address the urgent needs of flood-affected populations by restoring critical community infrastructure and providing livelihood opportunities. We have rehabilitated roads, built flood protection walls, and installed irrigation channels, benefiting over 25,000 individuals.
Strengthening Rule of Law
Our collaboration with UNDP on the Strengthening Rule of Law in Malakand project enhances access to justice through legal aid desks and clinics, empowering communities with knowledge of their rights and providing free legal support.
Peace Building and Social Cohesion
CERD promotes peace education and social cohesion among IDPs, refugees, and host communities, facilitating dialogues that foster understanding and community solidarity.
Gender & Development
Our Women Community Centers provide IDP women with essential services, including trauma counseling, vocational training, and health education, helping them gain skills and recognition in various exhibitions.
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)
We deliver essential WASH services across various districts, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities to improve community health and hygiene.
Food Security
With support from WFP, we implement food security projects that have distributed approximately 65,000 tons of food to over 150,000 families affected by conflict and natural disasters.
Education
Through the Welcome to School Initiative funded by UNICEF, we strengthen educational capacities in Frontier Regions, promoting child-friendly schooling and enhancing school enrollment.
Human Resource Development
Our Centre of Excellence in Training and Development (CETD) offers vocational skills training, capacity building, and media services, equipping communities and our staff with vital skills for development.
Poverty Reduction Program
In partnership with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), our Program for Poverty Reduction aims to empower communities through the establishment of community institutions and development plans, ensuring sustainability and active participation.
Social Cohesion and Livelihood Program
In collaboration with UNDP, we enhance living conditions for IDPs and host communities by promoting social cohesion and expanding access to essential services and livelihood opportunities.
Legal Aid and Protection Monitoring
Our initiatives in Swabi and Bara-Khyber Agency focus on improving access to justice and providing legal assistance, ensuring that communities have the support they need during challenging times.
Child Protection
Since 2009, our Child Protection program has supported over 61,000 children through Child Friendly Spaces and community engagement, enhancing awareness of child rights and providing psycho-social support.
At CERD, we are dedicated to creating sustainable solutions that empower individuals and transform communities. Together, we are building a brighter, more equitable future for all.