“Our youth from NMDs need resources, recognition, and representation,” stated said Dr. Qibla Ayaz was appointed as ad-hoc member of Supreme Court’s Shariat Appellate Bench, opening the seminar. He emphasized that “the PKR 100 billion promised must be delivered transparently, and youth must be empowered to lead with unity, pluralism, and peace. The government must appoint a separate minister for NMDs to ensure accountability and focus on its development.”

Islamabad, May 22, 2025 — Under the “Hum Pakistan” initiative, CHEF International organized the third seminar of its series titled “Sensitizing Youth for a Digitally Resilient and Peaceful Pakistan” at the Business Incubation Centre, University of Peshawar. Bringing together over 100 participants — youth from the Newly Merged Districts (NMDs), digital experts, civil society leaders, and educators — the seminar focused on equipping youth with skills to counter misinformation, advocate digital rights, and leverage technology for peacebuilding across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the NMDs.

This seminar marks a key milestone in the EU-funded CPTP project (Countering and Preventing Terrorism in Pakistan), led by NACTA and executed by UNODC in partnership with civil society organizations. The “Hum Pakistan” initiative specifically empowers youth from the NMDs through peacebuilding training, seminars, and media campaigns.

Senior journalist Sabookh Syed highlighted digital media’s power, saying, “Digital media is the most powerful tool in youth’s hands today. Use it for community journalism, raise critical questions, and spotlight local issues. But always verify your information — at least through two credible sources. That’s how responsible journalism works.”

Dr. Muhammad Hussain, Peacebuilding Expert and Author, highlighted key challenges of digital platforms: “While digital platforms connect youth globally, they also bring risks—misinformation, cyberbullying, online harassment. Awareness and digital literacy are vital so youth can use these tools effectively and safely.”

Rizwan Muhammad, a youth activist from Mohmand, shared his grassroots experience: “Starting awareness initiatives in Mohmand using digital tools wasn’t easy—but it sparked hope. We began with whatever was possible, and now we are connecting youth with the global world.”

Similarly, Maryia Khan Shinvari, a Youth Activist from Khyber: “Girls in NMDs are not just survivors of challenges—they are powerful agents of change. With access to digital skills and safe online platforms, we can rewrite our narratives, challenge societal injustices, and pave the way for a brighter future. Empowering young women in our communities is essential for building a peaceful and prosperous society.”

Advocate Umer Khan, a Digital Rights Lawyer, stressed ongoing challenges: “The Islamabad High Court recognizes internet access as a fundamental right. However, NMDs are still facing a severe lack of internet connectivity. We must raise our voices for digital equity.

Fatima Nazish, award-winning DW journalist and moderator for the panel discussions, highlighted “Solution-based journalism is the need of the hour and can inspire real change. I am proud to share that reporting on religious freedom and sensitive gender issues helped me earn international recognition. Rather than only highlighting problems, we can also focus on finding solutions and amplify our impact by using our voices effectively.”

Reiterating the central message, Ghulam Murtaza, Chief International Project Lead, expressed that “When used wisely, digital media empowers youth to grow personally, advance careers, and drive social change. But with this power comes with responsibility. Digital literacy is essential for navigating misinformation and engaging online purposefully. In a world where content spreads faster than truth, smart digital use is key to informed and impactful participation.”