IRSP, FANSA arranges session on strengthening governance, participatory decision making

PESHAWAR, Jun 30 (APP): Integrated Regional Support Program (IRSP) in collaboration with Freshwater Action Network South Asia (FANSA) Pakistan on Tuesday arranged a day long awareness and training workshop titled “Strengthening Governance Through Participatory Decision-Making”, at Mardan.

The primary objective of the workshop was to raise public awareness about good governance, transparency, accountability, public participation and effective decision-making at the local level.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including men and women, students, youth, social workers, community representatives, civil society members and individuals from various walks of life.

During the workshop, participants received detailed briefings on participatory governance, civic responsibilities, citizens’ rights, the role of local governments, and principles of sustainable development.

Addressing the participants, IRSP Executive Director, Shah Nasir and other speakers emphasized that strong, transparent and accountable governance could only be achieved when citizens were actively involved in the decision-making process. They stated that public trust could be ensured by encouraging people to communicate their opinions, suggestions and concerns to relevant institutions.

The speakers highlighted that good governance was built upon the principles of transparency, accountability, rule of law, equal opportunities.

The workshop also featured interactive group activities, question-and-answer sessions, and practical exercises designed to enhance participants’ understanding of various aspects of participatory governance.