One Million Youth Unite to Build URAAN: Ahsan Iqbal's Vision

Empowering Youth for National Transformation

Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of youth engagement in shaping Pakistan's future during a significant event. He highlighted that under the Youth ki URAAN initiative, one million young people are being mobilized to form the URAAN Youth Force. This network of social entrepreneurs is focused on achieving national goals through innovation and collective effort.

The minister addressed the closing ceremony of the URAAN Summer Scholars Program and the Young Parliamentary Development Council (YPDC) Fellowship. He described URAAN Pakistan as a practical roadmap aimed at transforming the economy on sustainable and strong foundations. His main message was about connecting the youth with the national transformation agenda and channeling their energy toward constructive and positive thinking.

The ceremony brought together a diverse group of participants, including overseas scholars from the Mitti ki Pukaar Summer Scholars Program and representatives from 131 YPDC chapters across Pakistan. This gathering underscored the program's commitment to inclusivity and national unity.

Ahsan Iqbal praised the dedication of overseas scholars who traveled to Pakistan at their own expense to work on pressing national challenges. Their participation reflected a deep commitment to Pakistan's future. He also noted the diversity of the program, which included youth from every province and district of Pakistan. This achievement symbolizes a strong sense of national unity.

The minister stressed that knowledge alone is not enough; its true test lies in its application. He reminded the audience that countries leading in science and technology are those that lead the world. He encouraged the new generation to follow the philosophy of Allama Iqbal, emphasizing learning, research, and innovation. "This is the era of knowledge and innovation. We must move toward the leading edge of innovation," he said.

He expressed confidence that through value chain development, Pakistan could enhance its exports by $100 billion over the next decade. This vision highlights the potential for economic growth driven by innovative thinking and strategic planning.

During his address, the minister pointed out the devastation caused by cloudbursts in Buner, Shangla, and Swat. He stressed that climate resilience is a key pillar of the URAAN Pakistan 5Es Framework. He called for collective action to combat climate change and reaffirmed the government's commitment to sustainable development.

The structure of the program includes 131 YPDC chapters across the country, which provide safe spaces for young people to engage in dialogue, build social and cultural consensus, and design roadmaps for collective action. Through these platforms, youth are not only raising their voices but also forging partnerships with the government, participating in policy-making, and contributing to implementation.

"This initiative is equipping young people with the skills, exposure, and opportunities they need to navigate challenges and emerge as champions of change," the minister added. He concluded by stating, "This is not just a closing ceremony—it is the beginning of a larger collective mission, led by the youth, for the future of Pakistan."

The event marked a significant step forward in engaging the youth in national development and highlighted the importance of their role in shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for Pakistan.