Incumbent govt plans to reconnect with 150 million population of Pakistan – the youth bulge: Shaza Fatima Khawaja

ISLAMABAD, Mar 21 (SABAH): SDGs Secretariat of the National Assembly organized an All Stakeholders Policy Dialogue in collaboration with British Council Pakistan on Tuesday at the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services, Islamabad.

The event was organized to identify the needs, potential and aspirations of young people globally. The 2023 report desires to recognize and understand shifts in how young people in Pakistan view the post pandemic world in the present day.

The speakers at the event included Honorable Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Convener of the SDGs Task force / Special Assistant to PM, and Amir Ramzan, Country Director British Council Pakistan. The chief guest of the event was Shaza Fatima Khawaja, SAPM Youth Affairs.

During her keynote, Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated “The incumbent Government plans to reconnect with the 150 million population of Pakistan – the youth bulge – as they are the driving force of the entire 220 million population.” She also reiterated that “we need to develop efficient labour management and information systems to eliminate the structural issues and gaps between our youth and enablers. We also need to devise 5 years and 10 years management plans so the market forces and youth have a roadmap for constructive future.”

The highlight of this dialogue was the discussion of thematic sessions on, “Employment, Education and Engagement” which provided a platform to Parliamentarians, Government representatives, academia, research institutions, CSOs, youth organizations and practitioners who have interests in youth related policy topics. This event consulted these stakeholders and produced conclusive policy briefs for the Government to mainstream youth voices and their demands in policy making.

The dialogue served as yet another example of the SDGs Secretariat’s commitment to its ongoing efforts for youth empowerment, development and inclusivity.