By Shamsul Haq
The overwhelming response to the Bano Qabil programme in Mardan has highlighted the growing demand among young Pakistanis for quality education, skills development and employment opportunities, speakers said at a stakeholders’ event organised by Alkhidmat Foundation to mark the successful conduct of the programme in the district.
Addressing the ceremony, Alkhidmat Foundation Secretary General Syed Waqas Anjum Jafri described Bano Qabil as a “game-changing initiative” for the country’s youth. He said the programme had emerged as a ray of hope for young people who had become disillusioned with the existing system and uncertain about their future.
“Through this initiative, young people have begun to believe that they can build a secure future in Pakistan. Alkhidmat Foundation has taken up the responsibility of equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed,” he said.
The event was also addressed by Jamaat-i-Islami Central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief Abdul Wasi, Bano Qabil Provincial Director Air Commodore (Retired) Amin Khan, Jamaat-i-Islami Mardan chief Ghulam Rasool, Alkhidmat district president Dr Arshad Khan, Saeed Akhtar and former tehsil nazim Ibrahim Buland.
Mr Jafri said more than 110,000 young men and women had completed training under the Bano Qabil programme and were striving to establish themselves professionally. He praised the programme’s volunteers, describing them as benefactors of society who dedicated their time and energy to the welfare of others.
Highlighting the country’s demographic realities, he noted that nearly two-thirds of Pakistan’s population consisted of young people, compared to a global average of around 45 per cent. He termed the management and development of this youth bulge one of the country’s greatest challenges.
“Our young people lack adequate educational institutions, recreational facilities and career opportunities. Many have lost confidence in conventional university education because they do not see a clear future linked to it. They need targeted interventions and investment in their skills,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Abdul Wasi said the record participation of Mardan’s youth in the Bano Qabil aptitude test reflected their eagerness to acquire education and marketable skills. He emphasised that free education up to matriculation was a constitutional responsibility of the state and called for greater investment in human capital.
He noted that artificial intelligence had become one of the most sought-after skills worldwide and would play a decisive role in shaping the future economy. He also acknowledged the support extended by local media, social media activists, district administration, police and other departments in making the programme a success.
“The next responsibility rests with us. We must ensure the availability of courses and training centres so that every boy and girl who appeared in the test gets an opportunity to acquire professional skills,” he said.
Jamaat-i-Islami district chief Ghulam Rasool said the success of the programme demonstrated the trust reposed by both youth and their parents in Alkhidmat Foundation. Referring to the massive gathering of young participants at the Mardan Sports Complex on June 13, he termed it an extraordinary event that reflected the aspirations of the younger generation.
“We pledge not to betray the trust of Pakistan’s youth. Every effort will be made to provide them with quality training so that they can stand on their own feet and contribute to strengthening the national economy,” he said.
During the ceremony, shields and certificates were distributed among representatives of the Water Supply and Sanitation Company Mardan, Mardan Press Club, various tehsil press clubs, social media influencers and office-bearers of the Private Schools Network in recognition of their support for the Bano Qabil test.
The programme’s success in Mardan underscores the growing recognition that investment in skills development and emerging technologies can help address youth unemployment and unlock the potential of Pakistan’s largest demographic segment.
