A Strategic Partnerships & Stakeholder Consultation was held in Pishin under the Youth Workforce Readiness & Digital Economy Pathways Initiative, supported by the U.S. Mission to Pakistan in partnership with the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN). The activity was implemented by PUAN grantee Dr. Muhammad Sheharyar Khan, an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) alumnus and member of the PUAN Quetta Chapter.

The consultation brought together 20 participants, including representatives from the education department, local administration, community leaders, journalists, sports clubs, and a PUAN alumnus, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing young people in District Pishin.

During the session, participants shared their perspectives on issues such as career guidance, employability, entrepreneurship, and access to digital opportunities. They were also introduced to the project’s upcoming Digital Economy & Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme, which will provide training in areas including e-commerce, freelancing, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness.

Through group discussions, participants recommended strengthening career counseling in educational institutions, expanding mentorship opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship through practical training, and encouraging closer collaboration between educational institutions, government departments, community organizations, and the private sector. Participants also highlighted the need for greater inclusion of young women in future project activities.

The consultation concluded with participants expressing their willingness to support future outreach and project activities. The recommendations gathered during the session will help inform the next phase of the initiative, including youth engagement, mentorship, and skills development activities planned for District Pishin.