Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to creating opportunities and a supportive environment for Pakistan’s youth, marking International Youth Day with a message celebrating their pivotal role in the nation’s future.
In his statement, PM Sharif emphasized that International Youth Day serves as a global reminder of the significance of young people and their potential to drive progress. “International Youth Day is celebrated worldwide to acknowledge the importance of our young population and raise awareness that they hold the key to our future,” he said.
This year’s theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” underscores the crucial role of youth at the intersection of technology and opportunity. PM Sharif noted that this confluence allows young individuals to transform their aspirations into tangible results, fostering a sustainable and equitable future.
With over 60% of Pakistan’s population under the age of 30, PM Sharif highlighted the country’s youthful demographic as a major asset. “Our young people, increasingly connected to the global digital landscape, have the potential to drive positive change through technology in education, entrepreneurship, and social activism,” he added.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s past and future initiatives aimed at empowering youth. “In 2013, we introduced the Youth Loan and Agricultural Scheme, which has proven highly effective. We have disbursed approximately 186 billion rupees to over 280,000 young entrepreneurs, creating numerous job opportunities nationwide. The Youth Business Loan Scheme was restructured to include Agricultural Loans, and we have also engaged Microfinance institutions to provide interest-free loans,” he said.
Looking forward, PM Sharif revealed plans to expand this initiative further. “We aim to allocate an additional 100 billion rupees during the financial year 2024-25, empowering around 300,000 young entrepreneurs across the country,” he announced.
The Prime Minister described the government’s comprehensive approach to youth development, which includes the Skill Development Programme, Youth Laptop Scheme, and Youth Loan Schemes. “Our holistic support framework ensures that our youth have the necessary resources to succeed and thrive,” he noted.
PM Sharif concluded by affirming the importance of empowering youth. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. They hold the key to shaping a brighter future for our country. By providing meaningful opportunities, we not only foster individual growth but also contribute to the broader social and economic development of Pakistan.”