Dr Amjad Saqib founded Akhuwat in 2001, transitioning from a historical and philosophical discourse to a practical approach to poverty alleviation. Previously serving in Pakistan’s Civil Services and witnessing the devastating effects of poverty as the General Manager of the Punjab Rural Support Program (PRSP), Dr Saqib was compelled to dedicate his life to helping the poor. Akhuwat embraced the concept of ‘Qarz-a-Hasan’ translating to “a beautiful loan” in the holy Qur’an, as its core microfinance strategy. This concept is an attempt to reignite the same pledge of Mawakhat and a bond of solidarity that was created due to the Prophet’s migration from Makkah to Medina.
It is based on the principle that if one has a loaf of bread, half of it rightfully belongs to a person who has none. This philosophy of solidarity is the driving force behind all of Akhuwat’s programs and practices.
The foundation’s vision is to have a poverty-free society built on the principles of compassion and equity. This can be achieved through its mission to alleviate poverty by empowering socially and economically marginalized segments of society through interest-free microfinance and education. The objective is to develop and sustain a social system based on mutual support where each individual lives a life full of respect and dignity.
The Philosophy Mawakhat
The concept of Mawakhat predates to 622 CE when the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) urged the residents of Medina (Ansars) to share half of their belongings with the Muhajirs (Migrants) who were forced to flee persecution from the Quraish and migrated from Mecca to Medina. Drawing inspiration from the generosity displayed by the Ansars, Akhuwat believes that if the same approach, where one affluent family embraces a less fortunate one is adopted today, inequality will be eradicated from the world.
While inspiration for the philosophy of Akhuwat i.e. Mawakhat comes from a particular faith, we do not exclude people from other faiths. We strongly believe in and practice religious freedom, tolerance, and inclusion; the message of solidarity is for all. All of Akhuwat’s practices which are inspired by this philosophy involve compassion towards others, sharing what you have with those who do not. All is done while ensuring that the dignity of beneficiaries is maintained. In all our dealings with them, they are treated as family, with utmost respect and love, like one would give their sibling.
Akhuwat Foundation is guided by four key pillars that shape its mission and values. The first pillar, Iman, underscores the importance of faith and human trust in a higher purpose, instilling a sense of responsibility and duty. The second, Ihsan, encourages individuals to strive for excellence in every action, promoting the idea of doing beautiful things in all endeavours. The third pillar, Ikhlas, emphasizes sincerity of intention and action, urging individuals to pursue goodness for its own sake without hidden motives. Lastly, Infaq, the fourth pillar, revolves around giving in the way of Allah, advocating for selfless spending without expecting rewards from anyone but Allah. Together, these pillars form the ethical and spiritual foundation of Akhuwat guiding its members in their efforts to contribute positively to society.
Akhuwat Foundation is supporting marginalized segments of our society through different programs. All of these programs reflect the determination of the management and the Executive Director – from loans to poor families to education services to the Khwaja Sira (Transgender) support program.
Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance
The Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance Program, a central initiative of the Akhuwat Foundation, has played a crucial role in providing essential assistance to 3.2 million families in Pakistan through the dispensation of interest-free microfinance loans. Its primary objective is to empower the underprivileged by offering sustainable pathways out of poverty. In 20 years since its inception, Akhuwat has disbursed approximately Rs. 210 billion with a presence in over 400 cities and more than 800 branches across Pakistan, the program proudly holds the distinction of being the world’s largest interest-free microfinance initiative challenging the conventional narrative of lending with its approach.
The program’s remarkable success is evident in an exceptional 99.9% loan repayment rate, underscoring the trust and sense of ownership felt by the communities it serves. In the realm of finance, where cutthroat competition and profit-driven dynamics often prevail, the success story of Akhuwat, stands out as an epitome of compassion and equity. Akhuwat operates based on Islamic lending principles, with a vision to create a poverty-free society.
Akhuwat Education Services
The Akhuwat Foundation in Pakistan recognises that a thriving society hinges on universal access to education. To fulfill its vision of a poverty-free society, Akhuwat aims to tackle the root cause of illiteracy among the poor with Akhuwat Education Services. Acknowledging the pivotal role of education in unlocking diverse opportunities, fostering innovation, and building a tolerant, compassionate, and eco-friendly society, Akhuwat is committed to investing in education. The mission involves providing free, high-quality education through interventions in primary, secondary, and higher education, contributing to a society where everyone can innovate, understand one another, and create endless possibilities.
Public School Support Program (PSSP)
Akhuwat believes every child deserves a quality education. Partnering with the Punjab government, they’ve revived over 4,000 neglected schools and adopted over 350, providing quality education and upgrading facilities. They understand a thriving society rests on ensuring education for all. Narain Jagannath Vaidya (NJV), Sindh’s first public school from 1855 faced neglect and lost its shine.
Since 2015, Akhuwat, alongside the Sindh government has meticulously restored this historical gem. Today, NJV stands tall again, offering quality education and holistic training, a testament to preserving history while shaping the future.
Akhuwat Jugnu School
The early years are crucial, yet many Pakistani children lack access to proper preschool education. Akhuwat’s Jugnu School fills this gap, providing children from low-income families with age-appropriate learning opportunities, and setting them on a strong foundation for success.
Akhuwat Learning Hubs
For vulnerable children of unknown parentage often exposed to drugs and violence, Akhuwat Learning Hubs offer a lifeline. Beyond education, they provide health, vocational, recreational, and counselling services. Engaging parents and grandparents creates a safe, supportive community, transforming once-desolate streets into havens of learning and hope.
Akhuwat College Kasur
For brilliant minds facing financial hurdles, Akhuwat College offers a haven. This residential college selects talented students from across Pakistan, regardless of background, and nurtures their potential through quality education, ethical values, and a spirit of service.
Akhuwat Women’s College Chakwal
Recognizing the vital role of women in progress, this residential college empowers young women across Pakistan. Currently, the college is also offering two Bachelor programs, BS English, and BS Economics for deserving Girls. Moreover, merit-based scholarships and a supportive environment allow them to thrive academically and become the leaders of tomorrow.
Akhuwat-FIRST
In partnership with Faisalabad Institute of Research, Science and Technology (FIRST), Akhuwat opens doors to science education. Offering scholarships and four-year degrees in fields like Biotechnology, Akhuwat-FIRST equips students with the tools to advance Pakistan’s future.
Akhuwat University Kasur
Currently running only two programs, Bachelor of Information Technology (IT) and Bachelor of Economics, this fee-free, residential university will be a game-changer. Through scholarships and interest-free loans, Akhuwat University will erase financial barriers and empower students from all walks of life to become educated leaders.
Akhuwat Mushahida School of Hospitality and Tourism
Under the Akhuwat University umbrella, this school combines Akhuwat’s philosophy with industry expertise to offer world-class hospitality education. By training deserving students, it meets the sector’s needs for skilled professionals. Akhuwat’s diverse scholarship programs and educational institutions stand as a ladder, helping individuals climb towards opportunity and a brighter future. Regardless of financial limitations or background, Akhuwat empowers everyone to reach their full potential and contribute to a thriving Pakistan.
Akhuwat Clothes Bank
The Akhuwat Clothes Bank operates by gathering, organizing, and cleaning donated clothes which are then distributed to low-income families. This assistance occurs regularly throughout the year, with special efforts during the peak winter season and in response to natural disasters.
The initiative aims to encourage simple, compassionate, and eco-friendly lifestyles by promoting a culture of sharing and recycling. Since its establishment in 2013, the Clothes Bank has not only provided essential items like clothing, home textiles, furniture, toys, and books to impoverished families but has also taken steps to empower the community. The program employs and trains transgender individuals to actively participate in running its various initiatives, contributing to a broader societal impact.
Khwajasira (Transgender) Support Program
In response to the social and economic challenges faced by the Khwajasira (transgender) community in Pakistan, leading to dependence on charity, vulnerability to exploitation, and a higher risk of abuse, Akhuwat, in partnership with Fountain House, initiated the Akhuwat Khwajasira Support Program in 2011. The program aims to address these issues by creating a comprehensive support system for Khwajasira individuals. Through economic and social interventions, thousands of Khwajasiras have been registered nationwide, receiving direct financial aid, health services, psychological support, and assistance in obtaining identity documents. The program strives to uplift and empower the Khwajasira community recognizing the urgent need for action in this area.
Akhuwat Health Services
Akhuwat’s Health Services are a lifeline for poor families struggling with healthcare. They offer discounted medicine, free checkups, and even dream gifts for terminally ill children. Established in 2009, the AHS Health Centre in Township, Lahore, includes specialized clinics such as a Diabetes Center, Gynecology Clinic, Psychiatric Clinic, and General Clinic.
In public hospitals, Akhuwat has established playrooms for kids stuck in hospital wards for months, giving families a bit of hope and joy during tough times. These are healthcare heroes, spreading compassion and care where it’s needed most. Akhuwat also helped the 2022 flood which affected 33 Million people in 55 districts of Pakistan. The devastating flood adds to the misery of already poor people.
Akhuwat helped more than 36000 families through cash disbursement, ration and tent distribution and free medical camps.
The foundation also provided loans of Rs. 141 million to rebuild flood-hit homes.
