ISLAMABAD: Pakistan marked International Youth Day 2026 on Wednesday with a milestone, as the government formally launched its first-ever National Youth Employment Policy aimed at equipping the country’s young population with education, modern skills, and meaningful employment opportunities.
The policy, unveiled at a ceremony in Islamabad, represents a comprehensive framework to address Pakistan’s youth employment challenges through targeted interventions in education, technology, and vocational training.
On International Youth Day, we celebrate the energy, talent and resolve of Pakistan’s youth. Our young people are the driving force of Pakistan’s progress and prosperity, with their innovation and leadership shaping a brighter future for our nation.
My government remains… pic.twitter.com/wAFS1rNqpY
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) August 12, 2026
Prime Minister: “Youth are Pakistan’s most valuable asset”
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Pakistan’s youth as the country’s “most valuable asset” and emphasized that investing in their future was essential for national progress.
“Today, we are not just launching policies; we are building a future for our young generation,” the prime minister said. “Pakistan cannot move forward without empowering its youth, and this government is fully committed to that mission.”
The premier also recognized outstanding achievements of students from Daanish Schools, distributing awards among position holders.
He specially acknowledged Muhammad Qasim from Dera Ghazi Khan, whose father earns a living by running a sugarcane juice cart, highlighting the transformative power of education in breaking cycles of poverty.
Pakistan’s youth are its greatest strength and the key to a brighter tomorrow. The National Youth Employment Policy is a step toward turning young dreams, talent, and determination into real opportunities. #YouthLovesShehbaz #PMsYouthProgrammepic.twitter.com/AocX0DSFgJ
— Maryam Naz (@Peggy__Here) August 12, 2026
AI education and international scholarships announced
In a major announcement, the prime minister revealed that Pakistani youth would be sent abroad to receive education and training in artificial intelligence, with the government covering all expenses.
“Candidates will be selected strictly on merit,” Sharif assured, adding that 35% of the opportunities would be reserved for women to ensure gender inclusivity in the technology sector.
The premier also announced that 1,000 Pakistani students would receive government-funded scholarships to study in China, further expanding international educational opportunities for the country’s youth.
Addressing the government’s laptop scheme, Sharif rejected allegations of political interference, stating that laptops had been distributed solely on merit and dismissing claims that recommendations had influenced the selection process.
New initiatives launched
During the ceremony, the prime minister inaugurated several initiatives for the youth, including:
- Power Sector Innovation Programme– aimed at fostering innovation in the energy sector
- National Youth Employment Policy– a comprehensive framework for youth employment
- Skills Ambassador Programme– designed to promote vocational training and skill development
نیشنل یوتھ ایمپلائمنٹ پالیسی۔۔!
نوجوانوں کے خوابوں کو روزگار کے مواقع، ہنر کو کامیابی اور صلاحیتوں کو بااختیار مستقبل سے جوڑنے کا عزم #PMsYouthProgramme #YouthLovesShehbaz pic.twitter.com/qD4YelFlYh
— Tanzil Gillani (@TanzilGillani) August 12, 2026
Danish schools to expand nationwide
Sharif announced a major expansion of the Danish School programme, which was designed to provide quality education to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“The standard of Danish Schools is comparable with leading educational institutions, including Aitchison College,” the prime minister said, praising the programme’s success.
He revealed that the initiative had already expanded beyond Punjab, with Danish Schools being established in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Similar institutions would also be established in Balochistan, ensuring equitable access to quality education across all provinces.
The prime minister further announced that classes at the newly established Danish University in Islamabad would begin next year, creating a seamless educational pathway for deserving students.
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Technology focus: Honouring Arfa Karim’s legacy
Urging young Pakistanis to pursue careers in technology and artificial intelligence, the prime minister highlighted the achievements of late Pakistani technology prodigy Arfa Karim.
“Arfa Karim proved that Pakistani youth can compete with the best in the world. We must follow her path and embrace technology as the future of our economy,” Sharif said.
He stressed that equipping young Pakistanis with modern skills was essential to strengthening the country’s economy and creating better employment opportunities in an increasingly digital world.
One day. One platform. Countless possibilities
One stage bringing together ideas, opportunities, innovation & initiatives that put Pakistan’s youth at the heart of nation’s future,Because when we invest in youth, we invest in Pakistan’s tomorrow#InternationalYouthDay2026 #NYEP pic.twitter.com/EEKYObaWTz
— Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (@PMsYouthProgram) August 11, 2026
PM youth programme chairman: “We work day and night”
Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, praised the premier’s leadership and commitment to youth development.
“We work day and night for our youth,” Mashhood said, commending Prime Minister Shehbaz for providing opportunities for young people during his tenure as chief minister of Punjab.
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“The world is talking about Pakistan’s progress today,” Mashhood added, expressing confidence that under the prime minister’s leadership, no one could stop the country from moving forward.
