Youth engagement crucial to counter extremism: Governor Kundi

PESHAWAR, Apr 07 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday termed youth as the country’s greatest asset and stressed the need to include them in decision-making processes to ensure lasting peace and development.

Addressing a regional dialogue conference at Governor House, Peshawar, as chief guest, he said that when young people feel their voices are heard, they are more likely to stay away from extremism and play a constructive role in society. The conference, organized by IRCRA and PPAF, focused on the theme “State, Society, Peace and Social Cohesion in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”

The event was attended by prominent figures including Major General (R) Inam-ul-Haq, Barrister Dr Muhammad Ali Saif, IRCRA President Muhammad Israr Madani, Maulana Yousaf Shah, Chief Programme PPAF Irshad Rasheed, PPP Parliamentary Leader in KP Assembly Ahmad Karim Kundi, Dr Aamir Raza, former MPA Shagufta Malik, members of the provincial assembly, youth, civil society representatives and women from across the province including merged districts.

Speakers emphasized joint efforts to promote peace, tolerance and social harmony. Participants also agreed on the need to bridge the gap between the state and citizens and shared recommendations in this regard.

The Governor said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had witnessed difficult periods of militancy and unrest, but its people had rendered unmatched sacrifices for the restoration of peace. He added that peace was not merely the absence of conflict but a comprehensive concept linked with justice and equality.

He underlined that youth and women are the real strength of any society and must be provided with opportunities in education, employment and leadership to contribute effectively to national development.

“Guiding the younger generation in the right direction is the need of the hour as they are the architects of the future,” he remarked.

Kundi highlighted that sustainable peace requires strong ties between the state and society, along with continuous dialogue.

He said the strength of a state in the modern world depends on public trust, transparent governance and ongoing engagement with citizens.

Calling dissent a beauty of democracy, he stressed that mutual respect and tolerance are essential for building a united nation.

 “We cannot progress unless we face the truth and acknowledge our mistakes,” he said, urging promotion of dialogue and understanding to achieve sustainable development.

The Governor appreciated the organizers for holding the conference, terming it a meaningful initiative for the stability and future of not only Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but the entire country.

He expressed hope that the recommendations emerging from the dialogue would contribute to peace, stability and social cohesion.

Shields were also distributed among participants at the end of the event.