Youth urged to drive social progress
PHOTO: FILE
South Punjab Secretary of School Education Rana Saleem Ahmad Khan has said transgender schools and Sobh-e-Nao schools have been established for marginalised youth .
Emphasising the vital role of the youth in propelling the nation’s growth across various spheres, he underscored the significance of fostering development in social, economic, political, and moral domains during his statement on International Youth Day, which was observed nationwide and worldwide on Saturday.
Speaking on the occasion, Khan stressed the pivotal role of the youth in steering a “green revolution” through efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. He asserted that the younger generation’s involvement would be crucial in reducing the severity of climate change effects and ensuring sustainable development.
This year’s theme for International Youth Day was ‘Green Skills and Youth,’ reflecting the importance of ecological awareness and skills development.
Khan emphasised the importance of devising effective strategies to address the myriad challenges faced by the youth today. He urged the creation of opportunities that would contribute to their holistic development.
Acknowledging the prominence of education, Khan encouraged the youth to concentrate their efforts on acquiring knowledge and skills that would make them valuable contributors to society.
Citing statistics from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Khan highlighted the demographic significance of Pakistan. With a total population of approximately 240 million, Pakistan stands as the fifth most populous country globally. An astonishing 64 percent of this population comprises individuals under the age of 30, with 29 percent falling between the ages of 15 and 29.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 13th, 2023.