New initiatives aim to empower youth through education, entrepreneurship, and digital access
ISLAMABAD: The Prime Minister’s Youth Program is set to distribute 100,000 laptops to deserving and high-achieving students this month, in a renewed push to empower Pakistan’s youth through technology and education.
Chairman of the PM Youth Program, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, announced the initiative during an exclusive interview with the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) on Wednesday. He emphasized that the distribution will be purely merit-based and is part of the government’s broader youth empowerment strategy.
Khan also revealed that a comprehensive National Youth and Adolescent Policy will soon be launched, developed through extensive consultation with youth representatives and stakeholders across the country. The policy is structured around the “Four Es”: Education, Employment, Environment, and Engagement—aimed at tackling core challenges and creating new avenues for opportunity.
“Our youth are the greatest asset of this nation,” said Khan. “Investing in their potential is not just a priority, but a responsibility.”
Among the other highlights of the programme:
- PM Youth Digital Hub: Now hosting over 500,000 registered users and attracting more than 10,000 local and international companies. The platform offers access to scholarships, job opportunities, and training programs.
- Overseas Skills Training: To boost the earning potential of Pakistani workers abroad, skills development programs are being launched specifically for overseas employment.
- PM Youth Loan Scheme: Offers startup loans of up to Rs1 million on easy repayment terms, enabling young entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses.
- Laptop for All Scheme: In addition to free distribution, students can also now purchase laptops through affordable bank installment plans.
- PM Talent Hunt Sports Scheme: More than 10,000 young athletes from Balochistan participated in cricket trials held in Quetta. Selected athletes will receive professional training at national academies with the opportunity to represent Pakistan on international platforms.
- National Youth Council: A 110-member advisory council, selected on merit, will provide input to the Prime Minister on youth-related matters.
- Pitch Pakistan Program: Soon to be launched, this platform will allow young innovators to present their ideas nationally, with access to funding and incubation support.
Rana Mashhood Khan concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to building a generation of skilled, entrepreneurial, and self-reliant youth, supported by digital tools, modern training centers, and access to finance.
