Youth awareness ‘tool against extremism’

PESHAWAR:

An integrated strategy aimed at fostering peace, tolerance, and solidarity among the youth, particularly students, has been formulated to combat the scourge of violent extremism.

Dr. Ayaz Khan, the Chief Coordination Officer of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism (CECVE), made this announcement during his address at a seminar held at Kohat University of Science and Technology.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Dr. Muhammad Naseer ud Din, the Dean of the University, Waqar Khan, the Director of CECVE, faculty members, administrative officials, and other participants.

Dr. Ayaz Khan shed light on the issue of violent extremism in society, delving into the contributing factors and the subsequent threats it poses to peace, security, and stability.

He also shared insights into the endeavors and strategies that the Center of Excellence is employing to combat violent extremism. He emphasized that in today’s interconnected world, where the impact of events in one region reverberates globally, the challenge of violent extremism requires a coordinated response at both the national and international levels.

The urgent need for fostering understanding and mutual respect among different religious and cultural communities was highlighted, as was the necessity for close collaboration and cooperation between governmental, academic, religious institutions, and non-governmental organizations to forge a more secure society.

Dr. Ayaz Khan stressed the role of technology companies in curbing the dissemination of extremist content on the internet and social media. He emphasized the importance of utilizing these high-tech platforms to promote positive and constructive values and behaviors.

Furthermore, he underlined the potency of knowledge and awareness as effective tools in preventing and eradicating violent extremism. The cooperation between various stakeholders was commended as a promising step that promises far-reaching positive outcomes.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 12^th, 2023.