Balochistan plans a shift from project-based aid to results-driven reforms to improve health, education, nutrition and social protection, says Minister Buledi.
Provincial Minister for Planning and Development Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi on Monday called for long-term, results-based partnerships to strengthen inclusive and resilient social services in Balochistan, stressing the need to move beyond short-term, project-driven interventions.
He was speaking at a high-level policy consultation titled “Towards Inclusive and Resilient Social Services in Balochistan”, organised by the Government of Balochistan with technical support from UNICEF in Islamabad.
Addressing development partners, federal and provincial officials, and other stakeholders, Minister Buledi outlined a strategic shift from fragmented, project-based interventions towards systems-oriented and outcome-focused reforms aimed at improving health, education, nutrition and social protection across the province.
He said Balochistan stood at a critical juncture in redefining its social development pathway, adding that the government’s approach was firmly grounded in evidence, reform and strong partnerships. Improving human development outcomes, he stressed, was a shared responsibility.
Improvements in Health and Education Indicators
Highlighting progress achieved over the past decade, the minister cited national surveys and development studies showing a significant decline in child mortality.
Infant mortality has fallen to around 66 per 1,000 live births, while under-five mortality has declined to 78 per 1,000 live births, reflecting the impact of targeted investments in health systems and child welfare.
On education, he noted gradual improvements in access, with literacy rates rising to about 42 per cent. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges in learning outcomes and transitions to secondary education, underscoring the need for sustained reforms to improve quality and retention.
Poverty Reduction, But Deep Challenges Remain
The minister also pointed to a decline in multidimensional poverty as a result of continued social sector investment, while cautioning that Balochistan still faces the highest levels of deprivation nationally.
Despite major investments in infrastructure — including education support programmes, health system strengthening and water supply initiatives — key indicators such as female literacy, nutrition outcomes and service quality remain areas of concern, he said.
He added that the next phase of reforms would prioritise human capital development, service quality and resilient delivery systems.
Strategic Direction and Priority Areas
Outlining the province’s strategic direction, Minister Buledi said the government is transitioning to a systems-oriented and outcome-focused model, with key priorities including:
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Integration of health, nutrition, education and social protection services
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Use of data and digital tools for better planning and accountability
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Alignment of provincial investments with the Sustainable Development Goals and climate resilience principles
Call for Deeper Engagement with Development Partners
Emphasising the importance of stronger international cooperation, the minister called for deeper engagement with institutions such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, KfW, World Food Programme and the United Nations Development Programme.
He said Balochistan was seeking strategic, programmatic partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes rather than isolated projects.
Identifying priority areas for collaboration, he highlighted the need to:
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Improve learning outcomes
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Strengthen frontline health and nutrition services
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Expand climate-responsive social protection systems
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Invest in women and girls as drivers of human development
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Enhance monitoring and data systems to ensure accountability
Commitment to Long-Term, Results-Based Cooperation
In conclusion, Minister Buledi reaffirmed the Government of Balochistan’s commitment to building inclusive, resilient and accountable social systems, inviting development partners to align with the province’s long-term vision for results-based cooperation that translates every investment into tangible improvements in the lives of Balochistan’s people.
