"International Youth Day" was celebrated at Center for South Asian Studies, in collaboration with Bedari Organization on September 18, 2023.  The distinguished guests participated in the seminar, were Mr. Adnan Ahmed (Project Manager, Bedari Organization), Mr. Waqas Ahmed (Youth Leader – ITA), Ms. Kiran Mehboob (Youth Representative Activist Social Entrepreneur), Mr. Muhammad Yousuf (Director Human Rights Department), Ms. Anum Choudhary (Assistant Director of Local Government and Community Development), together with the staff of Bedari Organization. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director Centre for South Asian was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Mr. Adnan Ahmad, the Project Manager, Bedari Organization discussed that young people should participate in politics, such as voting, campaigning, running for office, or joining political parties. It empowers them to influence policies, enhances the legitimacy of local governance systems, and fosters a culture of civic engagement and democratic values among future leaders and citizens. It also ensures that these systems reflect the diversity and needs of the population.  Mr Waqas Ahmed (Youth Leader – ITA) addressed to the participants that Local governments play a crucial role in engaging youth and addressing employment and entrepreneurship issues, fostering a culture of innovation and social responsibility. They provide opportunities for participation in decision-making processes, access to public services, and help develop skills, talents, and potentials, contributing to community economic and social well-being.

After that, there was panel discussion about Youth Political Participation and representation in the current local governance system.  In the end, the Director CSAS talked about Youth’s role in the society, as an agent of change. She stressed that that the young generation’s involvement in decision making can play an instrumental role and they should come on the front and work for an inclusive society and sustainable peace. But this can only happen when the youth comes out of intolerance and realizes the sense of responsibility. The programme was followed by Q & A.