Faryal Sikander1, Tania Ali Soomro2, and Shazia Abro3*
1Dawood University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan
2NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan
3Shaheed Allah Buksh Soomro, University of Art, Design and Heritages Jamshoro, Pakistan
Documentation is an umbrella term that comprises a number of phases: architectural, historical, social, economic, and ethnographic documentation. However, architectural documentation is considered a primary step towards a systematic cultural heritage preservation process. Heritage preservation is a contested issue in many developing countries, such as Pakistan, which are grappling to meet the basic necassities of everyday life. The situation gets consolidated with a vulnerable state of heritage legislative framework and its reduced implications. Thus, the current study aimed to discuss the process of architectural documentation of the Doctors’ Mess, also known as Haribhai Pragji Karia High School, as a case in one of the live projects carried out in Karachi. The methodology adopted for this study revolved around the various stages involved in the process, such as archival consultation, measured architectural documentation, on-site (field) exercises, and photographic documentation. The process further focused on the architectural investigation of this historic structure located in Karachi’s Ranchore Line Quarter. The findings of the current study showed how critical it is for any project's implementation to have a firm foundation in the form of accurate architectural drawings and other relevant data. The accuracy of the restoration/revitalization project can be judged on the basis of good quality drawings produced through the meticulous architectural documentation process. In conclusion, the documentation revealed previously unrecorded details about the building’s architectural features, its issues of decay, and its possible reasons, shedding light on its evolution and the cultural influences that shaped its design. Eventually, the current study highlighted the importance of thorough documentation in the preservation of heritage buildings. Moreover, it also offered a detailed record that would aid in the ongoing efforts to maintain cultural heritage for future generations.
The present-day metropolitan Karachi has enormous layers of history attached to it. The earliest known origins of Karachi can be traced back to the times of Alexander the Great, when his naval ship sailed through the Indus and took refuge from the storm on the marshy island that had crocodiles inhabiting it (Kalmati, 2022). The soldier called it Crocola, which means crocodile in Greek. This can be traced back to the 6th and early 5th centuries BC (Hasan, 2022). Later, the British arrived and annexed it to the British Raj in 1939; at that time, the city was known as Kurachee (Bailie, 1997). Karachi's formal development started with the British. A number of administrative works were carried out in the city to improve its infrastructure and other ground works (Bailie, 1997). At the time of the Indian subcontinent partition in 1947, Karachi was a middle-sized city/town with its own municipality and administrative setup. Since it was the only town with a port, it had the advantage of being one of the most advanced cities. Due to this reason, it was declared as the capital of the newly developed country, Pakistan, in 1947. It held this status until the capital was moved to the current city, Islamabad, in 1960 (Soomro & Soomro, 2017). Currently, colonial Karachi from 1939-1947 is considered as the historic core of Karachi (Cheema, 2007), with most of the heritage properties declared protected in various historic quarters. An estimated number of listed heritage properties, notified and protected under the Sindh Cultural Heritage Preservation Act 1994, is 1800 (approx.)[1]. Most of the heritage properties remain in a vulnerable state as not much has been done in terms of safeguarding initiatives. The existing legislative framework is considerably good, however, its implementation is a huge challenge due to the prevalent shortcomings within the procedural context (Soomro, 2024). Emerging development pressures and rapid urbanization with the least economic incentives put great pressure on historic preservation. Moreover, it remains a very expensive task, thus, in these circumstances, adapting the already existing heritage buildings rather than constructing new ones can be a viable solution as it potentially saves a lot of expenditure.
The practice of adaptive reuse of heritage buildings is not common, however, also not new to the city of Karachi. A number of heritage buildings have been adopted. Sometimes, they sustain their function; or otherwise, they are often repurposed. Notable of all is the State Bank Museum, the former Imperial Bank of India[2]. After the formation of Karachi, in order to accommodate the influx of immigrants and the functions related to them, another building was built for the State Bank next to the Greeco Roman historic edifice of the State Bank. Thus, the former building was adopted as Pakistan's first currency Museum in the 2000s (approx.) under the guidance of the founding member Dr. Asma Ibrahim. Other projects include the former residence of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, currently known as the Flag Staff House Museum on Fatima Jinnah Bonus Road, Mahotta Palace Museum in Old Clifton Quarter (Figure 1), Wazir Mansion Museum, the birthplace of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Kharadar (Figure 2), and The Dawood Foundation (TDF) Ghar, a cultural space. The list goes on.
These projects are quite well-known that involved the conservation architects and a meticulous approach towards their preservation. However, besides that, most of the listed properties in historic quarters are owned by private owners, who are comparatively lesser known. Since these are listed properties, they must comply with the prerequisites of the preservation process. However, due to the lack of expertise, funds, and enthusiasm, the outcome is in total contrast. The preservation process often lacks prior architectural documentation which is the backbone of any project and the ones that are restored are the results of over-enthusiastic measures (Soomro & Kumar, 2013).
Therefore, the current study aimed to discuss one of the listed heritage properties; Doctors' Mess, previously known as Haribhai Pragji Karia High School, as a case study. The study highlighted how important it is to architecturally document an edifice before initiating any heritage preservation project. As evident from its design, the building was built as a school, which moved out after partition due to the greater number of students. After being vacant for a while, the building was given to the Civil Hospital Karachi and was used to set up a Doctors' Mess. The Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) took charge of the building and established one of its wards in it. The building was again vacated in August 2007 due to its poor state of conservation[3]. It again functioned as an Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation DUHS and was abandoned by the end of 2017, just before its restoration proposal for revitalization was initiated. The architectural documentation exercise was carried out by Studio Perspective, a Karachi-based architectural firm.
Figure 1
Mohatta Palace Museum – Old Clifton Quarters – Listed Heritage Property
Figure 2
Wazir Mansion Museum – Old Town Quarters – Listed Heritage Property
Built heritage is a priceless asset of any nation that provides a connection to the shared history and links to its roots and cultural identities. It encompasses all facets of cultural identity, tangible and intangible including historical structures, landmarks, traditions, languages, artwork, music, and folklore. Cultural legacy reflects society. Thus, it is imperative to safeguard it and foster cultural diversity and a sense of community (Stephenson, 2023). It is essential for humanity to safeguard, preserve, and reconstruct its past in order to maintain its historical context and the validity of its curios, structures, and combination (Mekonnen et al., 2022). Heritage can take on many different forms, either as tangible objects, such as landmarks, locations, buildings, models, curios, exhibition halls, and scenes, or as intangible objects, such as customs, societies, beliefs, music, writing, dialects, verse, memories, feelings, values, and so on. This revolves around several facets of legacies using models from an enormous variety of tangible and intangible cultural assets (Mustansar & Siddiqui, 2020). For their preservation, appropriate documentation is necessary which may include digitizing archives, categorizing objects, and capturing oral traditions (Aldenderfer, 2011).
The current era's fast-paced development and upgrading is greatly detracted from cultural heritage safeguarding. Additionally, human neglect, natural calamities, and warfare harm cultural heritage worldwide. The damage done to cultural heritage sites, whether they are in Jerusalem (Hawari, 2024) or Turkey-Syria earthquake (Center for Disaster Philanthropy [CDP], 2023), cannot be undone, however, it can be anticipated and reversed if appropriate initiatives are taken in advance. Additionally, a number of causes, such as aging, urbanization, vandalism, and natural disasters, pose a great threat to cultural heritage. From a pragmatic standpoint, it is impossible to guarantee that these resources would never be lost, and there is always a chance that they may. Therefore, to ensure that they are thoroughly recorded so that, in the event of their passing, one may preserve the records and paperwork for future generations or, if necessary, use them for reconstruction (Hassani, 2015). Records in any form offer a more comprehensive picture and case history. More significantly, it aids in identifying several methods and frameworks to help the client, particularly those with complex or long-term requirements or those in need of several services. In case of an emergency when the person in charge is unavailable (due to illness, vacation, resignation, etc.), accurate and current recording plays a crucial role. Maintaining accurate records and documentation may let service providers communicate with one another and guarantee coordination, as opposed to inconsistent and haphazard facilitation (Soomro & Kumar, 2013).
Recording in the form of heritage documentation is an ongoing activity that provides relevant and timely information to enable the monitoring, maintenance, and understanding required for conservation. Meeting heritage management's demands involves actions and products, one of which is documentation. There is a growing national and international impetus to document cultural heritage due to its acknowledged value. International organizations have emphasized the value of documenting cultural assets for conservation efforts, management, evaluation, structural condition assessment, archiving, publishing, and research in their charters, resolutions, and declarations. UNESCO is one of the notable organization which comprises the well-known Venice Charter, the International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites, and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (Patias, 2006). According to the Burra Charter, prior to taking any action or making any changes that may affect the object, every conservation initiative must first comprehend the object and collect data regarding its physical condition (Australia International Council on Monuments and Sites, 2013).
Architectural documentation is the first and foremost step of any heritage conservation project. This stage lays the groundwork for the entire project since it has a direct impact on the precision and legitimacy of the proposal's execution. Thorough documentation guarantees the preservation of the building's historical integrity and offers a rigorous understanding of its original design, materials, and state. To determine whether features need to be restored, protected, or modified in accordance with the heritage legislation, accurate documentation is essential. A comprehensive documenting procedure reduces the possibility of incorrect interpretations, inappropriate actions, and the loss of historical authenticity, all of which could cause the heritage site to sustain potentially irreversible damage. Moreover, architectural documentation is a valuable source of reference for upcoming conservation projects. Offering an archival record that may be used by researchers, architects, and conservators in the future benefits the project as well as the heritage's long-term preservation.
Haribhai Pragji Karia High School was built in the pre-partition era in Karachi by a Hindu philanthropic family in 1926. The name of the building, which was named after Seth Hari bhai Pragji, a Gujrati Hindu resident of Karachi prior to 1947, is inscribed over the building. Seth Hari bhai Pragji was a philanthropist and an educationalist; he was elected as the member of the Karachi municipality twice from the Narain Pura Ranchor Line Quarter. He was elected to the education committee of Karachi Municipality. He also contributed to the improvement of the Swami Narain Temple located at Bundar Road in 1932; the temple was built in 1885[4] (Boivin, 2020). The school moved out of the building after the creation of Pakistan in 1947, abandoning the building for some time. Afterwards, it was given to the Civil Hospital Karachi, which established a Doctors' Mess there.
The building was built prior to 1947 in the British pre-partition era. Therefore, its architectural style is the remnant of the colonial architecture of that time. The building façade is a unique representation of the Anglo Vernacular, colonial, or domestic Gothic, where the regional features, such as the verandahs are combined with English features, such as the decorated entrance portals. The material of the main building is stone with a surface finish of color-create supported on the load-bearing walls. The most frequent recurring architectural attributes of the colonial period in the building are the arcaded colonnaded porticos, with colossal columns, crowning cornices that project out to a certain level, and sometimes in the style of pediments and pilasters with a touch of Art Deco popular at that time. The windows have keystones in sunburst motive, one could also see chevron patterns on the arches of the colonaded verandas. The building features stepped facade, with a strong vertical emphasis through the coloumns, it has a forward looking feel to it in its spririt. The building is an iconic example of Streamline Moderne in Karachi which exemplifies the sleekness and fluidity of late Art Deco architecture. Its defining feature is the curved corners, which soften the building's otherwise bold, geometric facade. Horizontal lines are wrapped around the structure, echoing the streamlined aesthetics of contemporary design. The sweeping curves and smooth surfaces created by color-crete create an effortless flow, lending the building a futuristic appeal. This design choice, particularly evident in its rounded edges, sets the Hari Bhai Pragji building apart, merging modernity with elegance in a way that is emblematic of theaters and transportation hubs of the era. These features are beautifuly amalgamated with regional features that include color-crete surface finish technique, mosiac tiles , grill ironwork and the cemented screen on top of the balcony, and ornamentations in floral patterns. Some of the notable architectural features found in the building are described as follows:
Figure 3
Pilasters, Decorative Cornice, and a Key Stone in Sunburst Pattern can be seen in this Window Creating a Frame
Figure 4
Arcaded Colonnaded Porticos with Cheveron Pattern and Iron Grill Work as a Later Addition
The said building was notified as a protected heritage on the provincial level in 1997, having an enlistment number 1997-319 under the Sindh Cultural Heritage Preservation Act 1994 by the Government of Sindh, Ministry of Culture. The city of Karachi and its historic ensemble have been given supplementary protection by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) via the Karachi Building and Town Planning Regulations in which a separate chapter: Chapter 15: Preservation of Heritage Building 2002 version, deals with the issues related to the process of conservation in the historic areas of Karachi. The current regulations are an updated version of the earlier regulations of 1979 (Soomro, 2024). Maintenance of the said building is controlled by following the SBCA regulations.
Ranchore Line Quarter is one of the city's most densely populated district. This area was inhabited by Hindus before the independence of Pakistan. The road on which the building is located was previously known as Princess Street; the street has a significant amount of heritage buildings. The Hiralal Building and the Government College for Women, "Built by Seth Rampartab Ramachandra," is a commemorative plaque that can be found on one of its walls. The Tinwalla Building, the Burns Center of the Civil Hospital Karachi, is another noteworthy structure in the vicinity. Proceeding ahead would allow one to see the Khoda Building, and on the right side, across the street, is an oddly striking building that the locals refer to as the Naulakha Compound. Documentation of some of the buildings about Doctors' Mess is given below.
The Haribhai Pragji Karia building is situated in one of the historic Quarters of the city of Karachi, named the Ranchore Line (Gazdarabad) Quarter, lying between the Jail and Preedy Quarters, named after the large"Ranchor Tank" (Lari & Lari, 2001). The Quarter is also referred to as Gazdarabad Quarter. It is located on plot number RAN – 11/ 13 on Chand Bibi Road, previously known as Princess Street. Figure 3 provides more details. The building stands in an independent compound with surrounding open spaces visible from the road. The plan typology is unique; the plot faces three sides that are exposed to the main thoroughfares, however, the entrance into the plot is only via Chand Bibi Road. One can access it via Sant Tukaram Road on the Eastern side and via Bhagwanji Moraji Road on the Western side.
Figure 5
Google Earth Image, Showing Different Buildings Around the Site
Figure 6
Location Plans of the Doctors' Mess Building Situated on RAN – 11/31 in Ranchore Line Quarter
Note. Map compilation developed by the authors in 2024 using the base maps from SBCA – Planning Section & Google earth.
The research process was organized into two main components: a comprehensive literature review and a practical field exercise. Literature reviews aided in the development of a thorough understanding of the subject. The regional and global literary sources were reviewed, encompassing both published and unpublished, reviewed and unreviewed materials. This phase was combined with the archival study of written and graphical materials. The literature reviews laid the basis for practical field exercise initiated in November 2018. This stage included the in-depth documentation of the case study. The approach was subdivided into 2 major sections: architectural documentation and photographic documentation.
Architectural documentation was conducted using a ‘manual documentation approach' which involved taking precise measurements of the building's dimensions in the form of handwritten notes and drawings. The tools used included measuring tapes, water pipes, levels, metal staffs for vertical dimensions, and plumb bobs. The details of the building were taken as they appeared, not exaggerated. Later, the handwritten notes and drawings were translated into AutoCAD drawings which included plans, elevations, sections, and details. The architectural documentation was followed by the photographic documentation with the following objectives:
Besides that, informal interviews/talks/general conversations with the direct and indirect users/ stakeholders of the properties were also conducted to understand the microclimate of the building in its nearby context. This helped in understanding the potential impact of the conservation of the building (to be carried out in the future). To conclude, the product of this research method is a synthesis of data that has been rationally and logically analyzed, interpreted, and assembled to produce a thorough and insightful account of the topic under study. The information utilized for this research is attributed to its original sources per the legal procedures followed to preserve the data's integrity.
Since no procedural literature is available for the architectural documentation process in relation to Sindh's current heritage legislation, it is more often followed by practice. Resultantly, the method takes a different approach for every project, depending solely on their scope. For the live project of Doctors' Mess, the architectural documentation process followed 4 stages. These stages included archival consultation, measured architectural documentation, digitization of the drawings, and photographic documentation. Apart from the consultation with the archives, the remaining steps comprised field exercises. The digitization of this project was also carried out on-site. This approach assisted in resolving any problems associated with the documentation (in case they occurred). Each of the stages is discussed below:
In order to have information regarding the history and the building evaluation, some archives and libraries were consulted in Karachi to gather relevant data on the case study and architectural documentation. However, as the study was significant and relevant, the subject was analyzed scarcely. Thus, substantial published data could not be secured from the archives. Until now, the archival study helped understand the subject's background within the larger context of Colonial Karachi. Following is the list of archives and the libraries consulted regarding the data extraction:
The process of architectural documentation started with a comprehensive property survey done by the site team in the presence of the experts. The first stage involved developing a rough schematic of the entire property in the form of sketches. It is important to recognize that digital documentation tools are not very commonly practiced, thus, manual measures are employed in Pakistan. Similarly, for this project, the entire building was documented manually using basic tools, such as measuring taps, water pipes, levels, plum-bobs, and metal staffs for vertical measurements. Firstly, the water pipe level was used to create the datum line. Secondly, the floors were documented in accordance with the elevations.
Following the manual measurement of all the dimensions on paper, the data was processed and turned into AutoCAD drawings that contained all plans, elevations, sections, and details. Since the drawings were digitized on-site, as previously mentioned, the process went quite well. Resultantly, all technical issues that arose during the documentation process were resolved immediately, greatly reducing the time needed. Due to the digital drawing, the building's minute characteristics were understood and reflected upon.
Floor Plans
Figure 7
Measured Architectural Drawings of the Doctors' Mess Building – All Floor Plans (G,F FF and S.F) Marked with the Detailed Floor Patterns
Note. © Studio Perspective Archives - 2018
Elevations
Figure 8
Measured Architectural Drawings of the Doctors' Mess Building – All Elevations
Note. © Studio Perspective Archives - 2018
Photographic documentation was an equally significant step as the measured architectural documentation. Photographic documentation was carried out to document the building graphically. The details, which could not be documented manually, were also documented through photographs. A simple DSL camera was used to capture high-resolution images of the building. Images were rastered in AutoCAD to develop good-quality details.
Figure 9
Photographic Documentation of Doctors' Mess
Note. © Studio Perspective Archives - 2018
Photographic documentation was not only essential to the measured documentation process, however, it also played a crucial role in establishing the analysis. For multiple reasons, some of the areas within the building premises were inaccessible. However, it was simpler to comprehend the building's dimensions and unreachable proportions with the aid of precise photos taken. The broken staircase and the waste dump restricted several regions including the back alleys and the stairs leading to the rooftop. Thus, photography was helpful in that situation. Photographs were taken in other similar regions as well. Figure 9 shows a few of the building's detailed photos for a reference.
Figure 10
Photographic Documentation of Doctors' Mess – Detailed Images of the Interior of the Building
Note. © Studio Perspective Archives - 2018
The current condition of the building depicts various issues that require a blend of approaches to restore the building. The building presents elements, such as pilasters, cornices, original windows, doors, mosaic flooring, and iron staircase grills that are still largely intact, however, need some restoration. Nevertheless, there are significant issues that require immediate attention. The building façade has suffered from biological growth, poor maintenance, and improper alterations, such as blocked window openings and the presence of metal projections. Rainwater, improperly draining onto the façade, has exacerbated the damage. Exposed electrical wiring and later additions, such as cement plaster and unnecessary partitions, are further contributing to the building's decline.
The restoration for the damages identified in the historic building include several key interventions tailored to preserve its integrity while addressing the sources of deterioration. Cleaning of the façade would be done cautiously with water-based methods after repairing open mortar joints to prevent water infiltration. Gentle techniques, such as dry brushing and soft scrubbing, would be employed to remove loose particles and dust, ensuring that the delicate plaster remains intact. Detached plaster would be carefully removed and replaced using crete, a specialized filler material compacted with spatulas and hard sponges to maintain structural cohesion. Wooden elements, such as doors and windows would undergo thorough cleaning and polishing to remove accumulated dust and layers of old paint. To tackle macro biological growth, root systems embedded in the masonry would be treated with non-damaging chemical agents and cavities would be repaired once the plant material has been fully eliminated. Rising dampness, notably around bathroom areas, would be handled by locating and restoring the source of water infiltration, primarily from leaking pipes and improper gradients. Outside the building, uneven flooring would be replaced with a combination of hard and soft landscaping to ensure aesthetic and functional improvements.
The documentation was completed with accuracy and drawings were verified multiple times.
There are several published documents and literature which emphasize the importance of the documentation of the cultural heritage, such as Burra Charter. However, with the invention of new tools and technologies, the concept of the conservation of cultural heritage has changed considerably. The new technologies, such as computers and digital tools have opened new pathways and provided new opportunities in the process of conservation of cultural heritage (Hassani, 2015).
In the case of current study, due to the lack of digital and modern tools, the time consumed in documentation was very long. The extended time required for manual documentation as compared to more modern techniques (like digital surveying or 3D scanning) reflects on how this impacted the overall project timeline. It would have allowed for a more detailed or nuanced understanding of the building's architecture.
Although, precautions were taken, the state of disrepair affected the documentation of certain areas and details of the building.
Over time, the building has undergone numerous alterations including the blocking of windows with concrete blocks, resulting in significant deterioration. Maintenance was carried out without regard to the building's heritage status, evidenced by the use of cement for repairs instead of the original color-crete. Originally polished wooden doors were painted with oil-based paint, compromising the integrity of wood. Structural damage on the second-floor of roof has rendered most of its parts unsafe, requiring immediate attention. Although, mosaic tiles remain largely intact, irrepairable damage has compromised the building's authenticity. There is problem of wall seepage in toilets, necessitating plumbing replacement. Exposed drainage lines outside the building have exacerbated deterioration by allowing water ingress, further undermining the structure.
The presence of Art Deco elements in the building reflects the influence of global architectural trends in Karachi during the 1920s. This tells a great deal about the city's cultural and economic status at the time, particularly in relation to international movements in architecture. It can be seen how the patrons of this building were aware of the global trends and were accepting new ideas. The building's use of modern materials, such as reinforced concrete, which was advanced for its time is a testament to how advance building construction was at that time. This choice of material (color-crete) and structural design points to a forward-thinking approach of the architects and patrons of the era.
It also reflects upon patrons of the building and the broader societal attitudes in Karachi at that time. The adoption of Art Deco style and modern materials suggests the significance of this openness to new styles and techniques in the context of Karachi's architectural history.
Conservation must preserve and if possible enhance the messages and values of cultural property. These values help systematically to set overall priorities in deciding proposed interventions, as well as to establish the extent and nature of the individual treatment (Feilden, 2003). The restoration of this particular structure is essential for the conservation of cultural heritage and the preservation of historical narratives embedded within its architectural form. This structure represents a synthesis of an artistic expression, technological advancement, and socio-economic dynamics of the era during which it was built, thereby serving as a crucial artifact for research and education.
A thorough examination and synthesis of the data gathered for this research suggested that preserving a country's architectural heritage is crucial to sustain its cultural identity. Presently, numerous approaches and techniques are available to accomplish this preservation procedure. Measuring the architectural documentation, however, continues to be the most important task. Understanding the relevant architectural elements is essential to expanding the project and incorporating more layers of information including structural and architectural characteristics, types of damage and decay, potential remedies, and an intervention plan. Thus, the case study selected for the current research was also documented firstly before developing the intervention proposal. However, due to limitations of the digital tools, the process took a considerable time to complete the job and achieve accurate results. The documentation drawings of the case study were developed as the building exists which helped to understand the building thoroughly. The developed drawings served as foundational drawings for the building's damaged atlas. Furthermore, the primary challenge confronted during this research was the dearth of thorough literature on the building. Nevertheless, despite visiting several libraries and archives, precise information about the structure was not found. As a result, it is critical to realize that understanding the development of any preservation strategy requires not only the measured architectural documentation but also the intangible historical data which is necessary to comprehend the building's growth and evolution.
[1]Data Acquired from the Heritage Cell – Department of Architecture and Planning, NED University (HC-DAPNED) Archives 2014
[2]For more details consulate website of the State Bank Museum at https://www.sbp.org.pk/museum/index.htm
[3]Data acquired by interview with Ar. Shahab Ghani Khan at the time of project preparation in 2018
[4]Data extracted from the interview with Prof. Dr. Tehmina Mufti, expert of Sindh language. Interview conducted on June 28, 2024, at 10.30am.
The author of the manuscript has no financial or non-financial conflict of interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.
The data associated with this study will be provided by the corresponding author upon request.
This research did not receive grant from any funding source or agency.