ANALYZING SOCIO-ECONOMIC BARRIERS AND STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING THE ADOPTION OF THE AKRSP MODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE ROUNDU SUB-DIVISION

Abstract

This study focuses on analyzing the socio-economic barriers that affect the adoption of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programmed (AKRSP) model for sustainable development in the Roundu Sub-Division of Gilgit-Baltistan. Despite AKRSP’s long-standing presence and commitment to community-led development, several challenges continue to hinder the full realization of its potential in the region. Employing a quantitative research approach with purposive sampling, data was collected from 120 respondents, including local community members, farmers, and AKRSP field workers. The study aims to identify key socio-economic barriers such as poverty, low literacy rates, gender inequality, limited access to basic services, and weak institutional support that constrain the effectiveness of the AKRSP model. It further examines the influence of these barriers on sustainable development indicators, including income generation, education, health, and environmental conservation. Additionally, the research explores community perceptions and their levels of participation in AKRSP activities to better understand the local response and engagement with the program. Data analysis is carried out using descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions, percentages, and cross-tabulations, to summarize and interpret the collected data meaningfully. The findings help uncover common trends, community insights, and areas where interventions are either succeeding or lacking. Based on the analysis, the study proposes actionable strategies to enhance community involvement, remove socio-economic constraints, and strengthen the implementation of the AKRSP model. These recommendations aim to guide policymakers and development practitioners in improving sustainable development outcomes in the Roundu Sub-Division.