Members News

UCA Distributes 500 Care Packages to Vulnerable Population in Naryn

The University of Central Asia (UCA), together with volunteers and social workers, brought smiles to the faces of Naryn residents on March 28th, as families in need received care packages at their doorsteps. “We were very happily surprised that the University of Central Asia came to our homes today with much needed medical and food supplies, and are most grateful for their support in these times of need,” said a grateful recipient.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, UCA distributed food and medical supplies to 500 families identified by the Mayor’s office in the vulnerable category in Naryn (Kyrgyzstan). This includes masks (2000), hand sanitizers (500 litres), antibacterial soap (1500 bars), flour (2500 kg), pasta (1500 kg), and cooking oil (500 litres). This donation was made possible through a partnership between the University of Central Asia, the Aga Khan Development Network, the Aga Khan Foundation Kyrgyzstan, and the Kyrgyz Investment and Credit Bank (KICB).

“The University of Central Asia’s initiative to provide food and medical supplies to families in need has won the gratitude of the people and government of Naryn,” said Nurbek Moldokadyrov, Mayor of Naryn. “We hope other NGOs will be inspired by UCA’s example and provide support as well during these difficult times.”

“Although the Aga Khan Development Network is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in all areas of its operations in Kyrgyzstan, UCA is particularly focusing on the vulnerable population identified by the Mayor’s Office in Naryn,” said Prof. Dr. S. Sohail H. Naqvi, Rector of UCA. “Because Naryn has a short supply of essential items, we arranged a shipment of food and medical supplies from Bishkek.”

The University has prepared 90 beds on the campus grounds for observation zones as part of the mitigation procedures for COVID-19 spread in Kyrgyzstan. To give a boost to the local economy, UCA has also purchased mattresses, blankets, pillows and linen made by women from the rural areas of Naryn.