Muhammad Amjad Saqib, born on 1 February 1957 and fluent in Punjabi and Urdu (امجد ثاقب), is a Pakistani social entrepreneur, former civil servant, development practitioner, and author. Renowned for his impactful contributions, he serves as the founder and executive director of the Akhuwat Foundation. This organization holds the distinction of being the world’s largest Islamic microfinance institution, extending interest-free loans to the most deserving segments of society. In recognition of his dedicated efforts in poverty alleviation, Saqib has been nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize.
Akhuwat Foundation's Impactful Journey in Poverty Alleviation
Since its establishment in 2001, Akhuwat Foundation has made remarkable strides in the realm of poverty alleviation. With a total disbursement exceeding PKR 157 billion (US$884 million) in interest-free loans, the organization has positively impacted over 5.5 million families throughout Pakistan. Embracing a holistic approach to addressing poverty, Akhuwat has initiated various projects, among them the groundbreaking Akhuwat College University, Pakistan’s first fee-free university. This institution opens doors to talented students nationwide who would otherwise face financial barriers to higher education. Beyond this, Akhuwat spearheads diverse initiatives, including enhancing financial inclusion, promoting education and healthcare accessibility, supporting the transgender community, and providing essential necessities like food and clothing.
A Pioneer in Social Mobilization, Microfinance, and Education
Amjad Saqib has earned acclaim for his noteworthy contributions to social mobilization, poverty alleviation, microfinance, and education management. His literary endeavors include the authorship of nine books, among them “Akhuwat ka Safar” and “Molu Musali,” detailing his journey in establishing Akhuwat. A regular contributor to various Pakistani newspapers through his columns, Saqib has shared his insights and experiences with a wider audience. His exceptional efforts have garnered both national and international recognition, including the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz, a distinguished civil award in Pakistan. Notably, he was honored with the “Asia’s Nobel Prize,” the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2021, acknowledging his organization’s impactful interest-free loan program.
Amjad Saqib's Journey from Kamalia to International Recognition
Born in 1957 in Kamalia, a small city in Punjab, Amjad Saqib embarked on a remarkable journey of academic and professional achievement. After completing his early education, he pursued higher studies at Government College, Lahore, and obtained his bachelor’s degree in medicine (M.B.B.S) from King Edward Medical College in 1982. Recognizing the importance of further education, he was awarded the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship in 1995, which led him to pursue a master’s degree in Public Administration from American University, Washington D.C. This academic pursuit marked a pivotal moment in Saqib’s career, setting the stage for his impactful work in the fields of social mobilization, poverty alleviation, and microfinance.
Saqib's Commitment to Learning and Public Welfare
Muhammad Amjad Saqib’s commitment to continuous learning is evident in his educational pursuits. In addition to his medical degree, he enrolled in a year-long program at LUMS, which collaborated with McGill University, focusing on Social Enterprise & Management. Furthermore, he expanded his knowledge through professional development courses on leadership from Harvard University.
In a pivotal decision in 2003, Saqib chose to redirect his efforts entirely towards public welfare and social development. This marked a significant turning point in his career as he resigned from the Pakistani Civil Service to dedicate himself to the establishment and growth of Akhuwat. This transition underscores his unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on society through his work in the realm of social entrepreneurship and poverty alleviation.
Global Impact and Personal Life
Beyond his significant contributions to Akhuwat Foundation, Amjad Saqib extends his expertise through consultancy services to various organizations, including the International Labour Organization, Asian Development Bank, UNICEF, World Bank, and the Canadian International Development Agency. Recognized as an authority on poverty alleviation and social entrepreneurship, he has been invited to speak at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University, University of Oxford, and University of Cambridge. His insights were also shared on an international platform when he addressed the United Nations Economic and Social Council on the ‘Taking Action to Improve Lives’ conference, emphasizing the importance of an integrated and holistic approach to poverty reduction.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Amjad Saqib is a member of the Blessing for All foundation. On a personal note, he is married to Farrukh Amjad, and the couple has two children, Junaid Farid and Farazeen Amjad Shahid. This glimpse into his personal life provides a more comprehensive understanding of the man behind the impactful initiatives in social development and poverty alleviation.
Pioneering Interest-Free Microfinance for a Poverty-Free Pakistan
Established in 2001, Akhuwat stands as the trailblazer in tackling poverty in Pakistan through innovative interest-free loans, known as Qarz-e-Hasan. As of 2021, the Islamic Microfinance program has disbursed an impressive PKR 157 Billion ($884 million) in interest-free loans, boasting a remarkable 99.7% repayment rate and impacting 5.5 million families nationwide. Operating with over 8000 employees and an extensive network of 853 branches across 400 cities, Akhuwat has become a formidable force in the fight against poverty.
Guided by the Islamic principle of MawaKhat (brotherhood), Akhuwat draws inspiration from the historic solidarity of citizens of Medina and the Muhajireen. Embodying this spirit, Akhuwat envisions a poverty-free society rooted in compassion and equity, fostering brotherhood and solidarity among communities.
Akhuwat's Holistic Approach
Diversifying its impact, Akhuwat has extended its reach into education, health, and support for the most marginalized segments of society. The organization’s multifaceted programs encompass Akhuwat Education Services, Akhuwat Clothes Bank, Akhuwat Transgender Support Program, and Akhuwat Health Services. Notably, it has introduced Pakistan’s inaugural fee-free university in Kasur—Akhuwat College. This residential college caters to students from low-income households who, despite their talent and aspirations, face educational barriers due to financial constraints. Beyond providing quality education, Akhuwat College focuses on nurturing individual talents, instilling ethical values, and fostering attributes like discipline, hard work, and volunteerism among these aspiring young minds.
Akhuwat's Impactful Initiatives Beyond Loans
Akhuwat’s commitment to education is evident in its network of over 300 schools and 4 colleges under the banner of Akhuwat Education Services. Additionally, the organization has made a significant impact through the distribution of 2.5 million clothes to low-income families nationwide, earning commendation from both the Punjab and Federal Governments.
Recognizing the importance of global engagement, Amjad Saqib visited Sweden and Denmark to encourage overseas Pakistanis to actively contribute to the cause.
Inclusive in its endeavors, the Akhuwat Transgender Support Program offers psycho-social therapy, skills and vocational training, literacy programs, and health workshops to thousands of transgender individuals across Pakistan. The program extends its reach through free medical camps, awareness seminars, and the provision of free treatment and vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis C and hepatitis B. Akhuwat’s holistic approach reflects a commitment to improving the lives of individuals beyond financial assistance.
Pioneering Accessible Education for All
In the process of construction, Akhuwat University aims to be Pakistan’s first fee-free university, pioneering a unique payment system where students contribute fees according to their financial means. Employing various financial instruments, including scholarships and interest-free loans, Akhuwat is committed to providing equal access to quality education for all eligible students. The university stands as a testament to Akhuwat’s long-term vision of fostering development and prosperity, envisioning a new generation of leaders who will drive positive transformation in their communities and contribute to the progress of the country.