With Gems and Jewelry intervention, RF simultaneously initiated a training program in stone masonry for the less educated and under privileged youth of mountainous communities in Pakistan. In Northern parts of Pakistan, conventional techniques of construction are common practice. Normally, buildings are usually constructed with stone and clay materials that usually fail to resist torrential rains and flooding. With introduction of sustainable construction practices and contemporary construction skills, RF contributed in creating youth market value. This initiative not only enriched their capacities but also opened new income generating opportunities for youth. Under the mentorship of seasoned and skilled craftsmen, incumbents learned the techniques and practices of masonry. Thinking ahead, RF also formed association of masons as to build linkages among the individuals in this trade, and bring them under the umbrella of the government’s recognized labor associations. RF has also developed first ever contextual Stone Masonry Training Manual in this regard.
Rupani Foundation as part of its skill development program has implemented the Project, “Training in Stone Masonry in Gilgit-Baltistan”, aiming to support labor markets through structured trainings in stone masonry with improvised tools and techniques. This programme was funded by TVET Reform Support Programme, co-funded by the European Union, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Federal Republic of Germany and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in Pakistan.
RF has introduced the new technology in the construction industry in Gilgit-Baltistan and established first labour association. Improved technology helped in reducing the risks associated with the natural disasters such as earth quakes and floods. RF has trained 1350 individuals across Gilgit-Baltistan, majority of trainees have started working as entrepreneurs while some became master trainers who are replicating the knowledge and skill to next generations.
