Commonwealth Secretary General Praises Pakistan's Youth Empowerment Initiatives

In a significant recognition of Pakistan's efforts towards youth empowerment, Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth Secretary General, commended the initiatives led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. These initiatives aim to create extensive opportunities and resources for the youth, a demographic that plays a crucial role in the nation's future. During her address at the Young Entrepreneurs Awards ceremony held at the Prime Minister's office, Scotland highlighted the nation's commitment to fostering a brighter future for its younger generation.

Scotland emphasized the remarkable progress being made under the leadership of Rana Mashhood Khan, the Chairman of the Prime Minister Youth Program. She stated, "Under this leadership, substantial advancements are being achieved to empower the younger generation." This statement reflects the government's dedication to utilizing modern technology and innovative approaches to secure a prosperous future for Pakistan.

Expressing her gratitude for the warm hospitality of the Pakistani people and government, Scotland remarked, "Wearing a Pakistani dress today symbolizes my solidarity with Pakistan. The government’s initiatives to empower the youth under PM Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership are commendable." She pointed out the demographic potential of Pakistan, noting that 60% of the global youth population is under 30 years of age, while Pakistan has 65% of its youth aged between 18 and 30. This highlights the importance of investing in the youth to harness their potential for national development.

Scotland asserted, "By equipping the youth with modern technology and skills, Pakistan can not only advance its own development but also make significant contributions to global progress." She acknowledged the vital role of young individuals in national and economic development, emphasizing that the Commonwealth recognizes their courage and determination as a catalyst for change. This recognition is crucial as it encourages young people to take active roles in shaping their futures.

In her address to the award recipients, Scotland urged them to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of artificial intelligence, which presents a multi-billion dollar opportunity. Since its launch in 2013, the Prime Minister's Youth Loan and Agricultural Scheme has allocated approximately Rs186 billion to over 280,000 young entrepreneurs, creating numerous employment opportunities across the nation. The scheme boasts a non-performing loan rate of less than 3%, highlighting its transparency and effectiveness.

The initiatives taken by the Pakistani government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif are paving the way for a brighter future for the youth. By investing in their skills and providing them with the necessary resources, Pakistan is not only preparing its younger generation for the challenges ahead but also contributing to global progress. The recognition from the Commonwealth Secretary General serves as a reminder of the importance of youth empowerment in building a prosperous nation.