Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO), a prominent rights-based civil society organization in Pakistan, operates across 75 Sindh districts. In collaboration with IRC and MERF, and funded by the EU, SPO is executing a project aimed at improving nutrition policy and policy implementation for mother and child nutrition in Sukkur, Khairpur, Kashmore, Naushehro Feroze, and Ghotki. The project focuses on strengthening the District Coordination Committee on Nutrition (DCCN) by enhancing policy dialogue, organizational management, and community involvement.

Executive Summary

SPO, in partnership with IRC and MERF, and funded by the EU, is implementing a project that strengthens nutrition policy and policy impact across key Sindh districts. This initiative aims to enhance the DCCN’s capacity through policy engagement, organizational assessment, and government collaboration.

Scope

The training program is designed to build the capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and DCCN members for effective policy dialogues. It covers understanding policy processes, advocacy strategies, collaboration with government departments, and strategy development for CSOs to drive sustainable policy implementation.

Overall Objectives

• Gain Knowledge: Understand policy development and policy impact, particularly in addressing nutrition challenges for women and children.
• Create Strategies: Develop action plans for policy engagement that align with broader nutrition policy goals.
• Foster Collaboration: Strengthen government collaboration and partnerships between CSOs, government departments, and stakeholders for effective policy implementation.

Training Content

1. Leadership for Policy Advocacy
   • Definition, importance, and styles of leadership & communication.
2. Effective Communication Skills
   • Verbal and nonverbal communication, active listening, and audience-specific messaging.
3. Advocacy Strategies
   • Understanding advocacy types, policy advocacy, and practical tools for engagement.
4. Understanding Policy Processes and Analysis
   • Policy dialogue, development cycle, and impact on nutrition policy.
5. Organizational Assessment and Collaboration
   • Conducting organizational assessments and SWOT analysis.

Methodology

The workshop adopted an interactive training model, incorporating multimedia presentations, group discussions, practical exercises, and role-playing to encourage active participation and in-depth learning.

Action Plan

Participants developed district-specific action plans, outlining practical steps for policy engagement and policy implementation. These plans focused on inclusive approaches, stakeholder involvement, and strategies to enhance nutrition policy outcomes.

Feedback

Participants expressed high satisfaction with the interactive training, the venue, and logistics. The trainer’s expertise and dynamic training delivery were particularly appreciated, ensuring a productive learning experience.