ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (Alliance News): Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture Attaullah Tarar emphasized the critical need to enhance opportunities for Pakistan’s youth by focusing on information technology (IT), agriculture, education, and sports.
Speaking at the National Youth Convention, he highlighted the potential of Pakistan’s young population, which comprises 60% of the country under the age of 30, to transform the nation’s destiny.
Tarar underlined the necessity of realigning national priorities to foster an IT revolution and advance quality education for the younger generation. He urged the youth to grasp the vision behind Pakistan’s creation and to draw inspiration from the historical struggles of the past.
Reflecting on the ongoing conflict in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the plight of Indian Muslims, the minister reaffirmed the historical justification for an independent Muslim state. He praised the Kashmiris for their resilience and continued struggle despite severe oppression.
The minister reminisced about the youth’s pivotal role in the Pakistan Movement, asserting that the same spirit is needed today to shape the country’s future. He drew parallels between the migration of Muslims from Makkah to Madinah and from India to Pakistan, highlighting the sacrifices made during the 1947 migration, including loss of life and widespread violence.
Tarar spoke about the deep-seated significance of Pakistan’s creation on the 27th of Ramazan and its establishment on the holiest night of Laila Tul Qadr. He expressed his belief that the country, founded on such sacred ground, is destined for prosperity and survival.
He praised Arshad Nadeem, a javelin thrower whose story of perseverance—from crafting a javelin from a tree branch to winning a gold medal—serves as an inspiration. Nadeem’s success, he said, unites the nation and exemplifies the potential of Pakistani youth.
The minister also highlighted initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme, which provided free laptops to students, playing a crucial role in stabilizing the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned the PML-N government’s establishment of the Danish School system in Punjab, which has positively impacted education in underprivileged areas.
Tarar critiqued the tendency for sensationalism over substantive achievements and called for a shift towards hope and opportunity creation for the youth. He reported a significant increase in IT exports and a surge in startups, reflecting the growing talent and potential within the country.
In closing, he affirmed the government’s commitment to empowering youth and expressed confidence that, with divine blessings, Pakistan will join the G-20 by 2030, leaving a better legacy for future generations.