The inaugural ceremony of the "Youth Engagement and Empowerment Initiative (YEEI)" project was held at the main Township campus of the University of Education, Lahore, in collaboration with the University of Warwick (UK) which was presided over by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aqif Anwar Ch while Vice Chancellor Beaconhouse National University Dr. Moeed W. Yousaf was the chief guest. Launched in 2023 with the support of the Warwick Institute of Engagement, the initiative has already made a significant impact by training 25 outstanding individuals—selected from over 517 applicants—in global citizenship, transferable skills, and digital literacy. Building on the success of the pilot phase, the second phase is now expanding its reach to 28 additional participants, with a renewed focus on students from underprivileged areas beyond Lahore. The goal is to bridge the opportunity gap by equipping youth with essential 21st-century skills that are vital for global engagement and meaningful employment. UE Associate Prof. Dr. Naima Qureshi, the Project Lead in Pakistan, remarked, “We believe in the transformative power of education and mentorship. This phase represents a shift—reaching beyond metropolitan centers to empower youth in regions that often remain disconnected from capacity-building opportunities.”

This year, the initiative continues to build a strong ecosystem of partnerships and community collaboration. It has brought together prominent institutions such as the Academic Leaders Innovation Forum, University of Education Lahore, Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), Beaconhouse National University (BNU), Lahore School of Economics (LSE), The Book Studio, University of Sargodha, University of Chakwal, Namal University Mianwali, and Grand Asia University Sialkot. This growing alliance of educators and innovators provides youth with a robust platform for experiential learning, leadership development, and real-world impact.

Prof. Dr. Aqif Anwar Chaudhry, Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to empowering future generations. “Empowering youth with relevant skills for the future is one of our top priorities. We take pride in supporting projects that foster innovation, leadership, and inclusivity,” he said. Dr. Moeed W. Yousaf said we have to focus on training rather in education and for that we need collaboration in universities. Dr. Freeha Azmat, the Project Lead from the University of Warwick, emphasized the initiative’s broader vision, stating, “We are nurturing a generation of globally aware, socially responsible young leaders. This project is not just about skill-building—it’s about inclusion, equity, and giving every young person a chance to thrive.” In the end, a panel discussion was also conducted with the participation of Ms. Arooj Khaliq, Dr. Naeema Qureshi, Ms. Farah, Prof. Rukhsana Zia, Dr. Moeed Yousaf and Dr. Aqif Anwar Chudhry.