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HYDERABAD, Nov 24 (APP):Academicians, development experts and youth advocates at Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam have emphasized that Pakistan’s sustainable socio-economic future lies in empowering its young population, described as the country’s most valuable human resource, through skill development, inclusive policies and equitable access to opportunities.
Speaking at a seminar titled “Social Inclusion and Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development,” organized under the Students–Teachers Engagement Programme with the support of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Islamabad, Sindh Higher Education Commission and the Government of Sindh, the speakers urged institutions and policymakers to remove the systemic barriers that hinder youth participation in national development.
According to the SAU spokesperson, the event was held at the Dr. A.M. Shaikh Auditorium, which was attended by students, faculty members and civil society representatives and youth leaders from across the province.
In his keynote address, the SAU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal said that the country’s future depends on socially included and empowered youth who are equipped to compete and collaborate globally. He warned that economic and social constraints continue to prevent young people from fully utilizing their abilities.
“Pakistan’s future lies in the hands of empowered youth,” he said. “Institutions and government bodies must ensure that these young people are equipped with knowledge, confidence and the environment to excel.”
Dr. Siyal stressed that social inclusion means ensuring fair access to education, opportunities and decision-making regardless of gender, geography or socio-economic status. He added that universities play a vital role in nurturing responsible citizens committed to diversity, tolerance and innovation.
Director University Advancement and Financial Assistance Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar noted that youth empowerment goes far beyond academic qualifications. He said that social inclusion was not merely access to education, It was about ensuring that every graduate feels valued, confident and capable of contributing meaningfully to society.
Other speakers, including Aamir Bangash and Vinod Kumar said that promoting social inclusion reduces discrimination and inequality, while fostering empathy and civic responsibility among students. They encouraged youth to participate in volunteerism, community service and innovation-led initiatives that strengthen social welfare and sustainable development.