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MUZAFFARABAD, Jun 02 (APP):Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK), Prof Dr Nadeem Haider Bukhari, has emphasized the importance of investing in youth by equipping them with modern skills, technological proficiency and strong Islamic values.
He said youth are the greatest asset of the nation and must be guided wisely to help them unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s progress.
He expressed these views while addressing as Chief Guest at a special event held under the umbrella of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) at UAJK’s Chella Campus on Monday.
Prof Dr Bukhari lauded the initiative launched by the Prime Minister of Pakistan for youth empowerment and called it “a step in the right direction.” He stressed that the government, academic institutions, parents, and society at large must take joint responsibility to ensure that youth are not wasted but rather mentored and motivated to become productive citizens.
Highlighting the need for responsible use of time and media, the Vice-Chancellor advised students to adopt discipline, set high goals, and strive to achieve them through hard work.
Sharing the inspiring example of Olympian Arshad Nadeem, he encouraged the youth to follow his example by pursuing excellence despite limited resources.
On this occasion, Mr Muhammad Ali Malik, Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, gave an overview of the objectives and impact of the PMYP.
He shared several inspiring success stories of young people who have benefited from the program and informed the audience that various initiatives, including skills development programs and interest-free loans, are being launched to empower youth across the country, both financially and professionally.
The event was attended by key stakeholders and officials, including Prof Dr Wajid Aziz Lone, Focal Person PMYP UAJK; Syed Waqar Hussain Shah, Project Director PMYP; Mr Shahid Hussain, Engagement and Education Expert; Mr Faizan Ali, Consultant; Fateh Muhammad Kiyani, Focal Person PMYP AJK; Prof Dr Saadat Hanif Dar, Registrar UAJK; Prof Dr Khawaja Basharat, Director Finance; and Dr Sharjil Saeed, Director Student Affairs, along with a large number of faculty members and students.
As part of the day’s activities, focus group discussions were held with students to gather their insights and recommendations for inclusion in the upcoming National Youth Policy. These discussions provided a platform for youth voices to directly inform policy planning at the national level.
In addition, boxing talent hunt events were organized under the PMYP banner, drawing participation from different institutions. The sporting events reflected the Prime Minister’s vision of encouraging youth involvement in healthy extracurricular activities alongside academics and skills development.
The event concluded with renewed commitment from both university leadership and government representatives to continue working hand-in-hand to build a more skilled, responsible and empowered youth population in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and beyond.