Pakistan, as a host to millions of Afghan refugees, has always extended its hand to support and uplift their lives. Among these refugees, there is a significant number of talented and ambitious young individuals, who strive to secure a better future for themselves and their families. Recognizing their potential, our alumnus Ruh Ullah Khalil recently organized an impactful networking conference for Pak-Afghan youth on the occasion of World Refugee Day under his Alumni Small Grant (ASG).
With a vision to enhance the livelihoods and self-sufficiency of Afghan refugees, the conference aimed to bridge the gap between Pakistani and Afghan youth. Over 150 students and recent graduates from both nations participated in this one-day event, which brought together experts from academia and industries to facilitate interactive sessions and engaging focus group activities.
This remarkable conference was part of a larger initiative called “Empowering Afghan Refugees through Employability Skill Building.” The project encompassed a four-day intensive training program for at least 120 young Afghan refugees in Peshawar, followed by the post-training conference. Its primary objectives were to provide training in digital technical and soft skills, promote entrepreneurship, address critical needs of refugees, increase employability, foster integration into host communities, and establish partnerships with organizations offering job opportunities.
The event served as a dynamic platform for young individuals from both Pakistan and Afghanistan to connect, learn from one another, and explore collaborative avenues. Through engaging sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, participants delved deeper into the challenges faced by Pak-Afghan youth, contributing their valuable perspectives and proposing potential solutions. This comprehensive approach aimed to empower the youth with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in their chosen fields.
Furthermore, the project aimed to forge strong links between the beneficiaries and industries, opening doors to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. The participants exhibited a keen interest and expressed their commitment to working closely with the industry experts who were invited to the conference. They recognized the value of honing their skills and sought sustainable means of providing for their families.
The conference concluded with keynote speeches by Sahibzada Aamir Khalil, the Country President of the Pak-US Alumni Network, and Waqar Ahmad Khan, the representative of the United States Education Foundation. Both speakers emphasized the significance of such activities and urged the participants to collaborate closely, fostering tolerance and progress within their communities. To celebrate the vibrant cultural diversity, a mesmerizing Pashtun Cultural Attan dance performance was presented, further strengthening the bonds of unity.
This extraordinary initiative by PUAN, in partnership with the U.S. Mission Pakistan, not only brought together young minds from Pakistan and Afghanistan but also created opportunities for growth, empowerment, and economic sustainability. Let us continue supporting the dreams and aspirations of these talented individuals, working together to build inclusive and prosperous communities. 🌟🤝🌍
