Organization
Network of Organizations Working for Persons with Disabilities Pakistan(NOWPDP)
Pakistan's leading disability inclusion network, founded in Karachi in 2008, delivering programmes in education, employment, accessibility, and identity documentation across 12 cities. NOWPDP's Shanakht initiative helps unregistered persons with disabilities access government entitlements. It has received Zero Project Awards in 2018 and 2025 for innovative disability-inclusive practice.
About
The Network of Organizations Working for Persons with Disabilities Pakistan (NOWPDP) was established in 2008 in Karachi. Headquartered in Saddar, it has grown to operate in 12 locations including Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Hyderabad, and rural Sindh. NOWPDP has received international recognition including Zero Project Awards in 2018 and 2025 for innovative solutions to disability inclusion challenges.
What They Do
NOWPDP runs multi-pronged programmes including Shanakht — a national identity documentation initiative enabling unregistered persons with disabilities to access government entitlements — employment and economic inclusion initiatives, accessible environment campaigns, and educational support. The organisation advocates for disability-inclusive legislation and engages with Pakistan's National Assembly on reform of the National Council for the Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons Act. It also provides technical assistance to businesses committed to disability inclusion.
Who They Serve
NOWPDP serves persons with diverse disabilities across Pakistan, with particular focus on those facing multiple deprivation — unregistered, unemployed, or living in underserved communities. Its Shanakht programme specifically targets the large proportion of disabled Pakistanis who lack official identity documents and are therefore excluded from state support. Women with disabilities and disabled youth receive targeted programme attention.
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