Balochistan holds youth policy dialogue to empower young voices
The Department of Sports and Youth Affairs Balochistan, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Islamic Relief, organized the Provincial Youth Policy Dialogue & Commitment Forum.
The forum was convened to empower the youth of Balochistan, harness their potential, and ensure their voices are effectively integrated into policymaking. Its purpose was to promote meaningful dialogue on the challenges, needs, priorities, and future opportunities of young people, while formulating a joint action plan for their development and prosperity.
Addressing the gathering, Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Durra Baloch described the youth as the province’s most valuable asset and the guarantee of a bright future. He emphasized that the Balochistan government considers young people not only as future stakeholders but also as active partners in today’s decision-making process. He noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bugti, the provincial government is committed to practical measures for youth empowerment, including education, skills development, employment, sports, and leadership opportunities.
Program Coordinator UNFPA, Saadia Atta, highlighted that direct dialogue with youth is the most effective way to understand their genuine needs and priorities. She said such forums allow young people to raise their voices, present their suggestions, and participate meaningfully in policymaking. She stressed that without effective youth participation, achieving sustainable development goals is not possible, and therefore, integrating youth perspectives into policy is a pressing need.
The forum brought together government institutions, youth representatives, UNFPA, Islamic Relief, development partners, civil society, educational institutions, and other stakeholders. Participants discussed the importance of initiatives in education, vocational training, employment, entrepreneurship, digital skills, leadership, health, sports, and social inclusion.
Speakers unanimously agreed that Balochistan’s youth population is a driving force for the province’s progress. They emphasized the need to provide equal opportunities, effective platforms, and meaningful representation in decision-making to fully benefit from their potential.
At the conclusion of the forum, participants expressed their commitment to incorporating youth opinions, suggestions, and priorities into future policymaking processes, while strengthening cooperation between the government, development partners, and stakeholders to secure a brighter future for the youth of Balochistan.