BISP Seeks Regional Outreach Coordinators to Strengthen Social Protection Initiatives in Pakistan
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a flagship social safety net initiative of the Government of Pakistan, has announced a call for Expression of Interest (EOI) to hire Regional Outreach Coordinators for Balochistan and the Federal Area (Azad Jammu & Kashmir). Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the Social Protection Development Project (SPDP), these roles aim to amplify BISP’s efforts in poverty alleviation and community engagement. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the vacancies, qualifications, application process, and the broader impact of these positions on Pakistan’s social protection landscape.
BISP and the Social Protection Development Project: An Overview
BISP, established in 2008, has been instrumental in providing financial assistance to millions of low-income families across Pakistan. With the ADB’s Loan No. 3837-PK, the SPDP (Additional Financing) seeks to enhance the program’s reach, efficiency, and inclusivity. Key objectives include:
Strengthening communication strategies to connect marginalized communities with social protection services.
Leveraging digital tools for transparent beneficiary targeting and grievance redressal.
Building resilience among vulnerable populations through tailored outreach programs.
The hiring of Regional Outreach Coordinators is pivotal to achieving these goals, particularly in underserved regions like Balochistan and AJK.
Vacancy Details: Roles and Responsibilities
BISP is recruiting for two critical positions:
1. Regional Outreach Coordinator (Balochistan)
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement region-specific communication strategies to raise awareness about BISP initiatives.
Manage media relations, including crisis communication during emergencies.
Lead teams to engage local communities, ensuring alignment with BISP’s poverty alleviation goals.
Utilize digital platforms to enhance outreach and stakeholder engagement.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mass Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or related fields. Preference for PhD holders from reputed international universities.
Experience: Minimum 10 years in senior media management roles within government, NGOs, or international agencies.
Skills: Expertise in strategic communication planning, digital media, and socio-economic development issues.
2. Regional Outreach Coordinator (Federal Area – AJK)
Key Responsibilities:
Craft compelling messaging in English and Urdu tailored to diverse audiences.
Oversee digital media campaigns and social media management to boost program visibility.
Collaborate with local leaders and organizations to address region-specific challenges.
Monitor and report on outreach effectiveness using data-driven insights.
Qualifications:
Education: Similar to the Balochistan role, with emphasis on digital media proficiency.
Experience: Demonstrated leadership in managing cross-functional teams.
Skills: Strong grasp of poverty alleviation frameworks and community mobilization.
Why These Roles Matter
Balochistan and AJK face unique socio-economic challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and financial resources. The Regional Outreach Coordinators will:
Bridge Information Gaps: Ensure marginalized populations understand and access BISP benefits.
Crisis Management: Mitigate misinformation during natural disasters or conflicts.
Empower Women: Align with BISP’s focus on women’s financial inclusion through initiatives like the Benazir Kafaalat Program.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access Terms of Reference (TORs)
Detailed TORs are available on:
BISP Website: www.bisp.gov.pk
ADB Consultant Management System (CMS): csm.adb.org
2. Eligibility Check
Ensure compliance with ADB Procurement Regulations (2017), particularly conflict-of-interest clauses (Paragraphs 1.19–1.21).
Verify qualifications and experience match the criteria.
3. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Register on ADB’s CMS: Create/update profiles at http://cms.adb.org.
Upload Documents: CV, academic certificates, experience letters, and proof of language proficiency.
Deadline: Submit by 24th May 2025, 9:00 PM PST (11:59 PM Manila Time).
Note:
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
No travel allowances (TA/DA) will be provided.
The Bigger Picture: ADB’s Role in Pakistan’s Social Protection
The ADB’s $500 million loan underscores its commitment to Pakistan’s social sector. Key focus areas include:
Digital Transformation: Integrating AI and blockchain for transparent cash transfers.
Capacity Building: Training BISP staff in modern communication tools.
Inclusive Growth: Targeting hard-to-reach areas like Balochistan’s Quetta division and AJK’s Neelum Valley.
Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges:
Geographical Barriers: Rugged terrains in Balochistan and AJK complicate fieldwork.
Cultural Sensitivities: Tailoring messages to respect local traditions while promoting gender equality.
Opportunities:
Tech-Driven Outreach: Using WhatsApp campaigns and community radio for wider reach.
Partnerships: Collaborating with local influencers and NGOs to build trust.
Testimonials from the Field
Hypothetical Scenario:
Aliya Khan, Former Outreach Coordinator (Sindh):
“Working with BISP allowed me to design campaigns that directly impacted maternal health in rural Sindh. Digital tools helped us track beneficiary feedback in real-time, ensuring no one was left behind.”
Conclusion: A Call to Action
For seasoned communication experts, these roles offer a rare chance to drive systemic change in Pakistan’s social protection framework. By joining BISP, coordinators will not only advance their careers but also contribute to a future where every Pakistani, regardless of geography or gender, can access life-changing support.
Apply Now: Visit ADB’s CMS Portal before the deadline. Together, let’s build a more inclusive Pakistan.
Contact Information:
Director HR (Policy & Regulations)
Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Headquarters
Room No. 233, Second Floor, F-Block, Pak Secretariat, Islamabad
Tel: +92 (51) 9246325
Email: info@bisp.gov.pk
