Comprising 70 per cent of the population, Pakistan’s youth is the country’s most influential demographic. Recognising their potential, the government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has prioritised youth empowerment as a cornerstone of national growth. This commitment was evident at the Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance (CAYA) Youth Summit 2025, held in Islamabad from 27 to 30 January 2025. Organised by the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP), the summit brought together youth ministers and delegates from 13 nations, fostering connections and inspiring collective action to address global challenges such as climate change, education, and youth employment.
The three-day summit gathered youth ministers from 13 countries, including Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, with Pakistan serving as the host. Participants engaged in a rich programme of panel discussions, workshops, networking sessions, cultural exchanges, and immersive visits. They shared their vision of a world where young people can lead solutions to global challenges.
Inauguration and the National Youth Council
At the inauguration of the Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance (CAYA) Summit 2025, the National Youth Council (NYC) was sworn in, with PM Shehbaz Sharif leading the event. The NYC’s new batch of 113 members reflects Pakistan’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Hailing from 41 cities, including Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and tribal areas, the council comprises 49 men, 49 women, two transgender individuals, and 13 members of the Pakistani diaspora. As an advisory body to the prime minister, the NYC aims to prioritise issues like education, entrepreneurship, fair job opportunities, and technological advancement. By giving young leaders a platform, the council will help shape policies that align with the aspirations of the country’s next generation.
Launch of Spark Magazine
A highlight of the summit was the launch of Spark Magazine. The publication aims to celebrate young achievers across various fields, such as technology, arts, and social entrepreneurship. “This magazine will showcase the Pakistani youth’s incredible talents and accomplishments,” said Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
The Islamabad Declaration on Youth Development
The CAYA Summit and the Asia Regional Youth Ministers Meeting produced a strong statement, the Islamabad Declaration on Youth Development, which prioritises young people as key actors in leadership and decision-making across the Commonwealth.
Day 2: Impactful discussions
Day 2 of the CAYA Youth Summit 2025 was filled with impactful discussions as the Youth Ministerial Meeting took place, followed by engaging roundtable sessions on the “National Adolescent and Youth Policy.” The day also featured creative art activities, celebrating the rich culture and creativity of our youth.
Day 3: Launch of the CAYA Secretariat
On the third day, CAYA delegates and the NYC members joined forces to officially launch the CAYA Secretariat. This historic moment signifies a major leap forward for youth collaboration and empowerment. The CAYA Secretariat at the Pak-China Friendship Centre will serve as a vibrant hub for youth-led initiatives, policy advocacy, and capacity-building programmes.
Day 4: Cultural immersion
On the final day, delegates and members of the National Youth Council visited the Pakistan Monument, its adjoining museum, and the iconic Faisal Mosque as part of their cultural immersion programme. The visit allowed the young leaders from Commonwealth nations to experience Pakistan’s rich history, cultural diversity, and architectural grandeur.
Empowering the next generation
Initiatives like the CAYA Youth Summit 2025 pave the way for a new era where Pakistan’s youth play a central role in shaping the nation’s policies and future. By empowering young leaders, the country addresses pressing issues and unlocks its vast potential for global innovation and progress. When equipped with the tools for success, Pakistan’s youth will shape their own destinies and redefine the country’s global narrative — ushering in a more inclusive and progressive society.
PMYP’s visionary initiative
The PMYP, a visionary initiative launched in 2013 by then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has come a long way. Since its inception, the PMYP has evolved from a local to an international platform, significantly expanding its reach and impact. Under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, the programme has been reinvigorated, focusing on education, engagement, employment, and environmental stewardship. The credit for hosting this international event in Pakistan goes to the capable team of PMYP led by Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in bringing global attention to the potential and achievements of Pakistan’s youth.
The writer is a digital media executive at the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
