BATAKUNDI, NARAN, August 15: The Directorate of Youth Affairs, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in collaboration with Vibrant Perspective Youth Organization, organized a five-day youth engagement event from August 11 to 15 at Youth Hostel Batakundi, Naran Valley, to commemorate International Youth Day and the Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
The event brought together 88 youth leaders and students from different parts of the country, in the program. The initiative provided young people with an opportunity to enhance their leadership skills, exchange ideas, develop an understanding of civic responsibilities, and discuss their role in community development.
A series of learning and capacity-building sessions were organized during the event, focusing on key themes including youth empowerment, youth leadership, civic engagement, and the role of young people in community development. Lead Trainer Ms. Aleena Ashfaq and Advocate Bilal Khan conducted interactive sessions and engaged the participants in discussions and activities aimed at encouraging leadership, responsibility, and active citizenship among youth.
As part of the Independence Day celebrations, a flag-hoisting ceremony was held at Youth Hostel Batakundi. National flags were hoisted in a patriotic atmosphere, with participants expressing their commitment to the principles of national unity, responsibility, and service to Pakistan.
Environmental awareness was another important component of the event. In connection with the Pakistan Cleanliness Drive, the participating youth organized an awareness walk in Batakundi to convey the message of cleanliness and environmental protection to tourists and the wider community. Participants urged visitors to keep the tourist destination clean, avoid littering, and play their role in protecting the natural beauty and environment of the Naran Valley.
The youth also participated in various group activities designed to encourage teamwork, creativity, leadership, and community engagement. During these activities, participants presented their ideas and recommendations regarding youth empowerment and community development and discussed practical ways through which young people can contribute to positive change in their communities.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the Directorate of Youth Affairs, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, for providing such valuable opportunities to young people and for supporting initiatives aimed at developing youth leadership, civic responsibility, community engagement, and empowerment.
The organizers emphasized that meaningful investment in youth development is essential for the social progress and sustainable development of Pakistan. The event demonstrated the enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment of young Pakistanis toward playing a constructive role in their communities and contributing to a cleaner, stronger, and more progressive country.
