Youth Engagement and Empowerment Initiative (YEEI): Mentoring Future Community Leaders through 21st Century Skills

Project Description

Following the success of Youth Support Programme (YSP)Link opens in a new window, this collaborative project, aims to empower unemployed youth in rural Punjab. The initiative provides training in digital and artificial intelligence literacy, transferable skills, critical thinking, and global citizenship to help young people who face significant challenges accessing education and employment. In YSP phase 1, which was highlighted on Pakistan’s national television, and drew 517 applicants despite targeting only 25 students, this project seeks to expand its reach and meet the rising demand for skills training in underserved communities.

This project will deliver critical employability skills and contribute to sustained community development. To ensure continuity and ownership, the program incorporates a mentor-mentee model where youth from phase 1 will guide new participants, promoting both skill-building and program sustainability.

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AI and Digital Skills

Hear from Dr Freeha Azmat (Project lead)

Hear from Dr Asima Iqbal (Project co-lead)

Global Citizenship Skills

Hear from Dr Naima Qureshi (Project co-lead)

Support from Head of Outreach and Engagement

Hear from Prof Margaret Low