Working in the Rural Development Sector teaches the value of patience, empathy, and the importance of support from loved ones who understand the sacrifices made for the greater good
- Despite the hardships, there is a rewarding sense of purpose that comes from knowing the work directly impacts marginalized communities
Zaheer Udin Babar Junejo
In today’s world, especially in a country like Pakistan, securing employment feels like an uphill battle. Getting a government job based on merit seems nearly impossible, as most of the positions are already sold out before they’re even announced. The next appealing option appears to be working in NGOs. But let me tell you, working in the NGO sector is no easy feat. Those in this field often make huge sacrifices for minimal gains. While society perceives NGOs as organizations with air-conditioned offices, the latest vehicles, and decision-makers controlling benefits for others, the reality is far from that image. It’s a challenging path that demands much more than what meets the eye. Working in the rural development sector brings a unique blend of personal fulfillment and challenges. It demands a deep commitment, often requiring one to spend long periods away from family, navigating difficult terrains, and adjusting to the simplicity of village life.
I recall my early days in the desert-based organization back in the early 2000s, working as a data collector with a meager daily wage of PKR 50. I would barely manage to earn around PKR 1200 to 1300 per month. Back then, I worked under someone who, interestingly, later ended up working under my line management. We would often stay in rural villages on our own, making sure to meet the targets set by the team leader. One vivid memory that stands out is a sunset just before Eid Ul Fitr—I had been dropped off 80 kilometers from home and was finally allowed to head back for the celebration. I was left with no support and no choice but to join the celebration along with my family. Another striking moment from my early professional journey was on my wedding day. My team attended the ceremony, and my boss, after congratulating me with a hug, instructed me to report to a location some 200 kilometers away by 9 a.m. the next morning. Such was the pace of the job that I couldn’t even be present with my wife when she delivered our first and second children. I remember once when a monitor from a funding partner visited and casually asked me about my kids. I replied that I had four. He then asked their ages, and instead of answering with numbers, I instinctively raised my hands, showing their heights horizontally. Puzzled, he asked why I was describing them that way. I simply said, “I’ve never seen them during the day, I always visit them while they’re asleep.” That was the reality then. But as time passed, and we gained experience, the employer invested in our growth, and we became integral parts of the team, delivering solid results. Despite this growth, the constant challenge remained to balance between being with family and staying fully committed to the demands of the job. Often, we have to choose one or the other, but the leader, one who is raised from the bottom will always try to accommodate those around.
No doubt, opportunists exist everywhere. They never miss a chance to profit, regardless of who they might harm in the process. But the truth is, many of those at the top, especially in both local and international NGOs, are the ones who sacrificed a great deal in the beginning and are now reaping the rewards. I also acknowledge that there are some who focus more on their personal gain than on societal development. However, there are also individuals who truly strive to bring about positive change, those who mentor the younger generation to take the lead and serve others with dignity. It all comes down to being wise in choosing the right employer and the kind of service we want to dedicate ourselves to. Despite the hardships, there is a rewarding sense of purpose that comes from knowing the work directly impacts marginalized communities. Balancing personal life can be difficult, as the line between professional dedication and personal time often blurs. However, it is this very integration of work and life that builds resilience, adaptability, and a stronger connection to the people served. I, over 25 years of service in the sector believe that working in the Rural Development Sector teaches the value of patience, empathy, and the importance of support from loved ones who understand the sacrifices made for the greater good.
Read: Unraveling Ironies
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Zaheer Udin Babar Junejo is a Community Driven Development Specialist based in Hyderabad Sindh
