In a significant development for youth empowerment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Monday gave in-principle approval to the Provincial Youth Policy 2026. This decision was made during a meeting of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, marking a crucial step toward addressing the needs and aspirations of the province’s young population.
The newly approved policy is set to be submitted to the provincial cabinet for final endorsement, signaling the government’s commitment to formalizing a comprehensive framework for youth development. During the meeting, the chief minister emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights and interests of young people, instructing officials to draft legislation that would provide robust protection and support for this vital demographic.
Moreover, Afridi highlighted the necessity of establishing Jawan Markaz, or Youth Centres, in every district of KP. These centres are envisioned as hubs for youth engagement and development, managed by empowered local governing bodies to ensure effective operation and community involvement. This initiative reflects the government’s strategy to decentralize youth services and make them more accessible at the grassroots level.
Recognizing that a substantial portion of KP’s population consists of young individuals, the chief minister underscored the need for meaningful investment in their growth and skills enhancement. He announced that the upcoming provincial budget would prioritize youth-related initiatives, with a particular focus on equipping young people with digital competencies. This focus on digital skills aims to prepare the youth for the evolving job market and technological advancements, thereby fostering economic opportunities and social inclusion.
