PAKISTAN
8,435
Students served( 61 % girls)
APRICOT DEHYDRATION PROJECT
In 2024, 91 women in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, received CAI-supported training to learn how to dry, process and package apricots, a staple of the national economy. Thanks to the instruction received, all 91 women were able to create their own small businesses, and by the end of the year, many had doubled their household incomes.
The impact of the Apricot Dehydration Project goes well beyond individual success stories, however, as it also addresses the issue of apricot wastage, fosters community economic development, and empowers women to lead sustainable income-generating ventures by blending traditional practices with modern techniques. As these women continue to thrive, their success reverberates throughout their communities, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.
MARIA BONO AND RAJA NAVEED
For Maria Bono and her husband Raja Naveed, both originally from Gilgit-Baltistan, the endearing“ power couple” label applied by their community is one they wear with pride. Together, they have dedicated their lives to creating lasting change in their rural home.
For years, Maria had worked in a government job in the city, and Raja taught at several urban, private schools. But they couldn’ t shake the feeling that they had a greater calling waiting in the mountains and decided to relocate back to the remote, rugged terrain of Gilgit-Baltistan to teach.
“ This community is one of the most underprivileged in the area and they deserve their right to education. The inhabitants migrated from other parts of the region and settled here to feed their families,” Raja shares. Maria adds,“ These children are active learners and whatever we teach, they pick up quickly.”
For the 145 students that attend the classes that Maria and Raja teach, the school day is an opportunity to focus on their growth and social connections. Outside of school hours, many of the students work hard tending cattle for their families, so time at school also gives them freedom to enjoy just being kids. Before they found a permanent building to use as a school, classes took place in open fields, with cattle tied up nearby.
Maria and Raja make sure families are included in their children’ s education. They are welcome in the school building and regularly participate in parent-teacher conferences and school council meetings. Maria says,“ We believe that we can bring about long-lasting change only if the parents, community, and teachers are involved in the progress of these students equally.”
4 | 2024 IMPACT REPORT CENTRAL ASIA INSTITUTE