ISLAMABAD, Feb 17 (APP):Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, attended the distribution ceremony at the Munir Vocational Training and Job Placement Institute, organized by Hoorain Collection, held at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Addressing the audience, Rana Mashhood said, “The sky is the limit. The government stands firmly behind women who dream, strive, and refuse to be held back.
He continued “Before Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, Pakistan was considered weak and vulnerable Today, we are standing strong on the path of prosperity. Every woman and young person here is a beacon of strength.”
“You are not just beneficiaries. You are the architects of Pakistan’s future. We will walk beside you and ensure you have every opportunity to rise and succeed.” he added.
He highlighted the Prime Minister’s Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Scheme, launched in 2013, which has benefited 71,000 till 2023 but in 2 years now in 2026 over 271,000 young people are going to get benefits nationwide.
Noting that only 11 percent of women accessed loans last year due to lack of awareness of the process top apply for loan, he pledged to increase female participation to at least 25 percent.
Chief PMYP also unveiled Pakistan’s first Youth Employment Policy,now approved by the government, which targets 35 percent female participation in the labor force.
Rana cited Malaysia as an example, where a 50 percent quota for women led to a two percent increase in GDP, emphasizing that gender inclusivity strengthens nations.
Rana Mashhood personally recognized Humaira, owner of Hoorain Collection, which is now benefiting 280 women across the country. He said, “Women’s empowerment is not just a mission. It is the heartbeat of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision. Every woman who rises and dares to dream is a victory for Pakistan. Your courage is our inspiration and your success will be our legacy.”
Rana Mashhood also announced the launch of a zero interest loan exclusively for women, a significant step to further enable financial independence and entrepreneurship.
In a heartfelt moment, women beneficiaries of Hoorain Collection delivered speeches, expressing gratitude to Humaira and Rana Mashhood for their support. Many shared that they have grown their businesses, become registered entrepreneurs, and are now contributing to the national economy as taxpayers, standing proudly on their own.
Business goods boxes were handed over to beneficiaries from Hoorain collection reflecting the programme’s mission to empower women and youth while turning their aspirations into reality.
The event concluded with a promise that PMYP will continue to support every woman and young person, helping them rise, achieve their dreams, and contribute to Pakistan’s future.