A resounding call for youth empowerment and sustainable action echoed through the halls of Quaid-e-Azam University as UNFPA Pakistan and the School of Leadership Foundation (SoLF) joined forces to commemorate International Youth Day 2023. The event aimed to celebrate the potential of the youth, acknowledge their challenges and inspire innovative approaches towards a greener and more sustainable future.

The event opened with the warm welcome of Ms. Latika Maskey Pradhan, Deputy Representative of UNFPA Pakistan, and Dr. Niaz Ahmed Akhter, the esteemed Vice-Chancellor of Quaid-e-Azam University. Addressing the audience, Ms. Pradhan emphasized the urgency of addressing sustainable development challenges in the current global landscape.

"In a world that is witnessing both technological leaps and environmental crises, the role of our youth is pivotal. They possess the creativity, passion, and drive to lead us towards a more sustainable future," said Ms. Pradhan. "With the clock ticking on the 2030 sustainable development agenda, it's imperative that we empower our youth with the skills they need to navigate these challenges."

Recognizing the importance of green skills for youth, the event featured interactive presentations, dialogues, and a theatre performance that captured the essence of the day.

The collaboration between UNFPA and SoLF resonated strongly throughout the event, as their joint projects were highlighted as essential steps toward nurturing young leaders for sustainable change.

"Theater is a powerful medium for conveying messages of change and empowerment. By including a theatre performance in today’s event, our aim was to awaken the hearts and minds of our youth, encouraging thoughtful discussions on our collective role in shaping a greener future," remarked Mariyam Irfan, the Managing Director of SoLF.

The event shed light on the significant strides made by UNFPA and SoLF in Pakistan, to foster innovative ideas and equip young minds with the tools needed for social entrepreneurship and green development. Projects such as the Health & Well-being Innovation Challenge and the Generation Unlimited Challenge have empowered youth to take charge of change-making initiatives.

"The collaboration between UNFPA and SoLF signifies our commitment to nurturing a generation of responsible leaders," stated Rabia Pasha Gillani, Programme Officer, Adolescents and Youth SRHR."

As the event concluded, participants expressed enthusiasm and a renewed commitment to driving sustainable change. The event served as a rallying point for youth to engage, innovate, and collaborate on critical challenges for the betterment of society and the planet.