On 22 September 2024, the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) organised the “Cycle for Life” event in Islamabad, which brought together cycling enthusiasts, including diplomats and young people. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the PMYP attended the event as the chief guest.
The cycling rally aimed to promote environmental preservation, raise awareness about the dangers of drug use, and encourage healthy activities among the youth. Participants included the Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Atadjan Movlamov, 3rd Secretary Eldar Permanov, and other representatives of the Diplomatic Corps in Islamabad, along with a large number of cycling and healthy lifestyle advocates.
The participants cycled from D-Chowk along Constitution Avenue, looping back to D-Chowk, passing through some of Islamabad’s most scenic areas. The route attracted onlookers, many of whom joined in the activities.
Although cycling is not a common mode of transport in Islamabad, the city does have a few designated cycling lanes, often used by cycling enthusiasts. The event was organised in collaboration with the Mujahid Group of Industries, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the Khabib Foundation Islamabad, and the Islamabad Cycling Association.
Chairman PMYP visits Dushanbe
On 11 October 2024, following instructions from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan arrived in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, where he was warmly welcomed by Ravshan Rajabzoda, Chairman of the Legislative and Rights Committee of the Majlisi Namoyandagon. His visit is a part of PM Shehbaz Sharif’s initiative to strengthen Pakistan’s ties with Central Asian nations.
Rana Mashhood attended the International Parliamentary Conference and the 30th Anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Tajikistan. In his address, he emphasised the vital role of constitutions in safeguarding societies, promoting justice, and upholding the rule of law in modern democracies. He highlighted that constitutions form the backbone of a nation, providing a framework that ensures fundamental rights, justice, and equality for all citizens.
“Constitutions are the bedrock of democratic societies,” Rana Mashhood said in his speech. “They protect individual rights, ensure equality, and provide a clear legal structure that strengthens the rule of law. Parliamentarians have a responsibility to uphold the constitution and advocate for the rights of the oppressed wherever they may be.”
He also underscored the deep cultural, historical, and political bonds between Pakistan and Tajikistan, noting ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations in areas such as trade, security, and regional stability. He urged parliamentarians to speak out against the atrocities occurring in Gaza and Indian-occupied Kashmir.
During the visit, Rana Mashhood engaged in discussions with Pakistani students, academics, and business leaders in Tajikistan, seeking to strengthen ties with the diaspora community and explore opportunities for mutual growth. He also highlighted the PMYP’s initiatives aimed at empowering young people, including the Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Scheme, Skills Development Programme, and National Innovation Award.
Girls Cricket Camp
On 8 October 2024, the Zalmi Foundation, in collaboration with several partners, organised a Girls Cricket Camp at Government Graduate College Rawalpindi. The camp was inaugurated by Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, who attended as the chief guest.
After formally inaugurated the camp, Chairman Mashhood interacted with the young athletes and played cricket with them. In his address, he reiterated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s commitment to empowering the youth through educational and sports platforms. He emphasised that the government is dedicated to providing opportunities for young people to excel on merit.
“Shehbaz Rind and Usman Wazir, along with other players, have raised the flag of success internationally,” he said. “We will ensure that the youth have access to platforms in educational institutions to showcase their talents on merit. The South Asian Games and Youth Olympic Games are our targets. Through talent hunt programmes, we will identify the best players for these events,” he added, highlighting the ongoing establishment of sports academies across the country.
The writer is a digital media executive at the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
