Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, visited Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) where he addressed the students and faculty members. Welcoming the Minister, Vice Chancellor Khalid Hafeez emphasized the vital role universities play in fostering innovation, which later translates into industrial growth. He remarked that if Pakistan's “Uraan” vision is to be realized, it will require skilled and competent young individuals, for which significant efforts must be made to nurture their talents. Addressing the gathering, Ahsan Iqbal expressed his heartfelt connection with BUITEMS, describing the university as his second home. He recalled his earlier visits when he delivered lectures here, contributing to the educational development of a region that was previously underserved. Reflecting on the rapid changes shaping the world, he noted that humanity is currently witnessing the fastest pace of transformation in history. "My generation experienced the journey from slates to 5G technology," he said. "Today's youth will experience in days the changes we saw over decades." The Minister highlighted how paradigms of productivity, living, and learning are undergoing fundamental shifts. He stressed the urgent need for young Pakistanis to acquire skills aligned with the demands of the new era or risk being left behind in the global race. He asserted that the development of Pakistan must be guided by a comprehensive roadmap informed by the needs of the future. Drawing comparisons between Pakistan’s progress and global advancements, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that while Pakistan has made significant achievements since 1947, it lags behind on the world stage. He encouraged every Pakistani, especially the youth, to reflect on why the nation has fallen behind and stressed the importance of diagnosing the root causes of national issues to effectively address them. The Minister elaborated that countries like Japan, South Korea, China, India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia achieved remarkable progress through common factors: peace, harmony, political stability, policy continuity, and consistent reforms. He underlined that Pakistan, too, must prioritize political stability and policy continuity to ensure sustainable growth. He regretted that political instability in Pakistan has historically derailed economic plans. Citing the example of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s government, he claimed that had the administration continued beyond 1991, Pakistan would have been among the world’s top economies today, and Nawaz Sharif would have been recognized alongside leaders like Mahathir Mohamad. Highlighting achievements during the previous tenures, Ahsan Iqbal recalled that between 2013 and 2018, significant improvements were made — terrorism was curtailed, energy shortages were addressed, and industrial activities revived. Particularly in Balochistan, peace was restored, infrastructure was expanded, and development projects were accelerated. When the current government assumed office in 2022, Pakistan was facing internal default. However, through collective efforts, the economy was stabilized. He noted that policy rates have dropped from thirty percent to twelve percent, the stock market has reached historic highs, remittances have increased, and the country has recorded a one-billion-dollar current account surplus for the first time in history. The Minister highlighted Pakistan's immense mineral wealth, stating that few countries possess such abundant natural resources. He underscored that the youth are the most crucial stakeholders in shaping Pakistan’s future. Recounting infrastructural progress, he mentioned the development of 650 kilometers of roads from Quetta to Gwadar, reducing travel time from thirty-six to eight hours and boosting local commerce and connectivity. Despite challenges and sacrifices — including the martyrdom of 43 workers — the government remained committed to completing critical infrastructure projects. Discussing modern challenges, Ahsan Iqbal pointed out the dangers of misinformation and manipulation through social media. Quoting the Quran, he urged the youth to verify information before accepting it as truth. He warned against forces attempting to create societal division and emphasized that political discourse must not be limited to social media narratives. Referring to security concerns, he stressed that Balochistan plays a strategic role in Pakistan’s defense. Without Balochistan's strategic "umbrella," the security situation could have been far worse. The Minister detailed several initiatives launched under the Ministry of Planning to support youth development and education, particularly in Balochistan. These include establishing new universities and campuses in Gwadar, Turbat, Loralai, Buleda, and Khuzdar tailored to local professional needs; offering 5,000 scholarships to Baloch students to study at top institutions nationwide; setting up technical training centers under NAVTTC for IT, mechanics, plumbing, and construction skills; and promoting digital literacy through the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme. He emphasized that the government’s focus is on empowering youth with skills and technology, not mere handouts. Through youth business loans and internship programs, thousands have been supported in launching businesses and gaining vital work experience. Ahsan Iqbal recounted a personal incident where he survived an assassination attempt in 2018 by a youth influenced by propaganda. He stressed that political differences must never turn into hatred, and that tolerance and unity are essential to Pakistan’s progress. Concluding his address, he reaffirmed the federal government's unwavering commitment to the youth of Balochistan, pledging to continue investing in their education and skills to secure a prosperous future for Pakistan. *
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