- Charity should gradually shift from consumption based assistance as micro-finance banks promote inclusive growth
Interview with Mr Mateen Akhtar, Founder/Director TNGS and English Qosmos.
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Mateen Akhtar: I am a motivated and socially conscious individual with a strong interest in education, social development, and public policy. I believe in continuous learning and self-improvement, particularly in understanding the socio-economic challenges of Pakistan. My academic background and professional exposure have helped me develop analytical thinking, communication skills, and a problem-solving mindset. I aspire to contribute positively to society by promoting education, reducing inequality, and supporting sustainable development initiatives. I value integrity, hard work, and service to the community, and I aim to align my career with national development goals.
PAGE: What must the incumbent government do to alleviate poverty in Pakistan?
Mateen Akhtar: To alleviate poverty in Pakistan, the incumbent government must adopt a multi-dimensional and sustainable approach. Firstly, it should focus on job creation by promoting industrial growth, SMEs, and entrepreneurship, especially in rural areas. Secondly, education and skill development must be aligned with market needs to enhance employability. Thirdly, strengthening social safety nets like BISP and Ehsaas through transparency and better targeting is crucial. Additionally, controlling inflation, improving governance, reducing corruption, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare and basic services can significantly improve living standards and help break the cycle of poverty.
PAGE: What is your perspective about the charity work in Pakistan?
Mateen Akhtar: Charity work in Pakistan is deeply rooted in religious, cultural, and social values, making it one of the most generous societies in the world. While charity provides immediate relief to the poor in the form of food, healthcare, and shelter, it often remains short-term and reactive. My perspective is that charity should gradually shift from consumption-based assistance to capacity-building initiatives such as education, vocational training, and interest-free micro-loans. Organized, transparent, and impact-driven charity can transform lives and contribute to long-term socio-economic development.
PAGE: Do you think the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by the corporate sector is rather vital to address the scourge of poverty in Pakistan?
Mateen Akhtar: Yes, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is vital in addressing poverty in Pakistan. The corporate sector possesses financial resources, managerial expertise, and technological capacity that can complement government efforts. Through CSR initiatives such as skill development programs, scholarships, healthcare projects, and community development, corporations can play a transformative role. However, CSR should move beyond symbolic donations and focus on sustainable, measurable, and inclusive projects aligned with national development priorities. Effective CSR can promote shared growth, social stability, and long-term economic resilience.
PAGE: How effective are micro-finance banks in terms of inclusive economic growth in Pakistan?
Mateen Akhtar: Micro-finance banks have been moderately effective in promoting inclusive economic growth in Pakistan by providing financial access to underserved segments, particularly women, small entrepreneurs, and rural populations. They help reduce dependence on informal moneylenders and encourage self-employment. However, their effectiveness is limited by high interest rates, lack of financial literacy, and insufficient outreach in remote areas. To enhance their impact, micro-finance institutions must integrate skill training, business advisory services, and digital financial inclusion, ensuring that micro-credit leads to sustainable income generation rather than debt dependency.