Quetta, Balochistan - The Sports and Youth Affairs Department of the Government of Balochistan, in collaboration with the Chanan Development Association (CDA), successfully organized the first-ever National Youth Summit in the history of Balochistan. The three-day summit, held in Quetta, brought together over 350 young participants from 90 districts across Pakistan. This landmark event aimed to harness the potential of youth, explore sustainable solutions to pressing challenges, and pave the way for a prosperous and resilient Pakistan.
The National Youth Summit was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at a ceremony attended by esteemed guests, including Babar Yusufzai, spokesperson for the Chief Minister of Balochistan; Nawabzada Jamal Khan Raisani, Coordinator for Youth Affairs; Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Convener of the Parliamentary Task Force for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Mr. Ishaq Jamali, Secretary of the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs nd Mr. Muhammad Shahzad Khan, Executive Director Chanan Development Association (CDA). The event commenced with the Grass-root Voices session, moderated by Balochistan's young activist and entrepreneur, Mr. Khalid Hussain Mir During this session, inspiring young activists Zamnran Baloch, Sehrsh Kanwal, Aqila Yousafi, and Alisha Sherazi shared their struggle and inspiring stories with the young participants, providing them with motivation and encouragement.
Addressing the gathering, Nawabzada Jamal Khan Raisani, Coordinator for Youth Affairs, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the officials of the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs and the Chanan Development Association for convening dynamic youth from all over Pakistan in the beautiful city of Quetta. Raisani committed to expediting the approval of the Balochistan Youth Policy from the Provincial Assembly, ensuring that the voices and aspirations of Balochistan's youth become an integral part of decision-making processes. The comprehensive Youth Policy Framework, developed through the efforts of the Youth Department, will empower the youth with necessary skills, enabling them to lead Balochistan and the nation towards a prosperous future.
Mr. Ishaq Jamali, Secretary for the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, emphasized the historical role of young people as agents of change and progress worldwide. He recognized their unwavering determination, fresh perspectives, and boundless energy, stating that the National Youth Summit was an opportunity to amplify their voices, celebrate their aspirations, and recognize their dreams. Jamali highlighted the significance of the summit as a platform for the brilliant minds of Pakistan to ignite a flame of unity, cooperation, and transformation, ultimately shaping the future of a developed and prosperous nation.
Throughout the summit, notable personalities from various fields, including former MPA and central leader of the National Party, Ms. Yasmine Lehri, dedicated social activists such as Mr. Jhangir Bazai, Jayya Jagi, and Nimra Pirkani, along with other influential political and social leaders, shared their valuable insights. The thought-provoking addresses by Ex-Senator Mir Kabir Ahmed Muhammad Shahi, Ex-Speaker Balochistan Assembly Ms. Rahila Durani, and Provincial Chief of SAMEDA Balochistan Mr. Shakoor Ahmed Baloch further added to the summit's significance, these engaging discussions not only enriched the participants' knowledge but also inspired them to take proactive steps towards positive change.
Under the exceptional guidance and the valuable contributions in the management of the event Mr. Abbas Ali Khosa, Director of Youth Affairs, and Muhammad Mustafa, Assistant Director, the National Youth Summit achieved great success, creating a platform that empowered and inspired young leaders from across Pakistan.
In addition to engaging sessions, the summit also featured a series of skill-building workshops, enabling young participants to enhance their abilities and broaden their horizons. These workshops covered diverse areas such as leadership development, entrepreneurship, technology, and social impact. The practical knowledge gained will empower the youth to contribute effectively to the development of their communities and the nation as a whole.
Throughout the summit, the delegates actively voiced their recommendations, reflecting the collective aspirations of the young leaders across Pakistan. These recommendations include a call to finalize and launch the Balochistan Youth Policy, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the youth in the region. They also emphasize the need for prioritizing resources to enhance the skills of young people, promoting digital literacy, and creating entrepreneurship opportunities. The delegates express gratitude to the organizers and encourage the continuation of youth-focused events in Balochistan. They stress the importance of encouraging young leaders' participation in the political process and urge the provision of resources through tailored funding mechanisms. The honorable Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, along with the Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs, endorsed these recommendations, demonstrating their commitment to championing youth empowerment in Pakistan.
The Department of Sports and Youth Affairs of the Government of Balochistan and the Chanan Development Association express their heartfelt appreciation to all participants, speakers, sponsors, and partners for their invaluable contributions in making the National Youth Summit a resounding success.