Peshawar: CHEF International, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), successfully organized a transformative seminar under the Hum Pakistan initiative at the Business Incubation Centre, University of Peshawar.
The event, attended by over 100 participants, including youth from the Newly Merged Districts (NMDs), educators, policymakers, civil society leaders, and development experts, focused on exploring inclusive education solutions for sustainable peace in the post-merger regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
The seminar, titled "Education’s Role in Shaping Inclusive and Resilient Youth for a Harmonious Pakistan," facilitated vibrant discussions on the critical role of education in peacebuilding and countering extremism. Participants explored topics such as emotional resilience, gender inclusion, religious harmony, and innovative strategies for improving educational access.
Keynote Addresses:
Dr. Ayaz Khan, Director of the Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism (KP CVE), emphasized the importance of education as a counter-extremism tool. "Education is our most powerful counter-extremism tool — but it must be inclusive, and grounded in the realities of our youth. Platforms like Hum Pakistan give voice to those most impacted and most capable of leading change," he remarked.
Other notable speakers included Dr. Waseem Ahmed from Hopeman Consultants UK, who stressed the importance of integrating psychosocial support into educational frameworks, and Muhammad Israr Madani, President of the International Research Council for Religious Affairs (IRCRA), who highlighted that religious teachings promote peace and tolerance.
The seminar also featured inspiring youth voices, including Ms. Maham Ahmed from Mohmand District, who shared her journey of overcoming societal challenges to pursue education, and Murtaza Mehsud, President of the Tribal Youth Association, who called for expanded educational opportunities for NMD youth.
Launch of 'Rahnama-e-Naujawan':
CHEF International also introduced its new publication, "Rahnama-e-Naujawan," a practical guidebook designed to empower youth with knowledge on education, leadership, civic responsibility, and personal development. The booklet aims to equip young people with the tools to become empathetic and visionary peacebuilders in their communities.
A Collective Call to Action:
The event concluded with a strong collective call to action — urging stakeholders to prioritize education, promote gender inclusion, involve religious and civil society leaders, and develop localized strategies that support peace and development in the NMDs.
The seminar marked a significant milestone under the Countering and Preventing Terrorism in Pakistan (CPTP) project, funded by the European Union (EU) and led by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), executed by UNODC and CHEF International.
