Lahore: A youth conference titled 'Youth as Catalysts of Change: Pakistan's Population Management Challenges' was held at Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore, under the Chief Minister's Population Management and Family Planning Programme. The conference aimed to raise awareness among students about the socio-economic impacts of rapid population growth, the importance of effective population management, and the role of family planning in achieving sustainable national development.
According to Radio Pakistan, correspondent Qasim Bukhari, the event was organised under the auspices of the Directorate General, Population Welfare, Health and Population Department, Punjab. Principal Dr Iram Anjum and Vice Principal Dr Kulsoom Akhtar attended the conference as chief guests. Addressing the participants, they appreciated the initiative and emphasised that informed and empowered youth can play a pivotal role in addressing Pakistan's population-related challenges and promoting responsible social behaviour.
Representatives from the Directorate General, Population Welfare, Punjab, including Deputy Director (SBCC) Muhammad Afzal Chaudhry, Assistant Director (IEC) Salmanur Rasheed, and Ms Sania Mirza, briefed the participants on the adverse effects of unchecked population growth. They highlighted the need for effective population management and underscored the importance of family planning in ensuring healthier families, improved maternal and child health, and long-term socio-economic stability.
Provincial representatives of The Challenge Initiative, such as Khubaib Kiyani and Mr Khalid, stressed the importance of meaningful youth engagement. They encouraged students to play an active role in spreading awareness, making informed decisions, and contributing positively within their communities.
The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to empowering youth through knowledge and awareness, promoting responsible choices, and strengthening collaborative efforts to achieve balanced population growth and sustainable national development.