UK -: Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan held series of high-level engagements with leading organizations, youth diaspora members, and academic institutions across the United Kingdom focusing on humanitarian service, youth empowerment, innovation, Esports collaboration, and the promotion of Pakistan’s positive global image.
During his visit to the Muslim Hands Open Kitchen in Hounslow, Chairman PMYP expressed deep appreciation for what he described as a remarkable gift from overseas Pakistanis to humanity. He noted that although the initiative may appear modest in scale, its impact is profound, dignified, and long-lasting. He highlighted that the Open Kitchen projects a positive image of Pakistan across Europe and the United Kingdom, reflecting the compassion and commitment of Pakistanis to serve humanity beyond borders. Chairman PMYP commended the consistent and uninterrupted food service provided by Muslim Hands, which has earned recognition from national and international organizations, including formal acknowledgment from the British Government. He also highlighted Muslim Hands’ extensive work in Pakistan in the fields of education, welfare, and youth empowerment through sports, noting that the Hounslow centre stands as a clear demonstration of the seriousness, discipline, and compassion with which the organization serves humanity. He emphasized that institutions like Muslim Hands are a vital source of Pakistan’s goodwill, credibility, and positive global identity, underlining that sustained service lies at the heart of true humanitarian work.
Chairman PMYP also held a meeting with Chester King, President of British Esports, to explore collaboration on Esports policy development, digital skills, curriculum design, institutional strengthening, and youth-focused initiatives. Discussions underscored the importance of continued policy guidance and structured knowledge exchange to strengthen Pakistan’s emerging Esports ecosystem. Potential collaboration with the British Council on curriculum development was discussed to integrate digital skills, game development, and Esports management into PMYP initiatives, ensuring youth are equipped with industry-relevant and future-ready skills. Support was also sought for the establishment of the Pakistan Esports Federation as a structured and sustainable body, guided by international governance best practices, including exposure visits for the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Esports. Opportunities for joint Esports tournaments and international events were explored to provide Pakistani youth with global exposure, competitive experience, and professional networking. Chairman PMYP reaffirmed PMYP’s commitment to promoting Esports as a viable career pathway, a tool for youth empowerment, and a platform for innovation and global engagement, extending an invitation to Mr. King to visit Pakistan for upcoming national Esports initiatives.
Chairman PMYP emphasized that Esports is no longer merely entertainment but a fast-growing global industry offering youth meaningful career pathways in digital skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He noted that it will play a strategic role in Pakistan’s youth empowerment agenda by linking talent, technology, and global opportunities. He highlighted its potential to connect Pakistani youth with the international digital economy, foster competitiveness, and position Pakistan as an emerging player in the global Esports ecosystem
In addition, Chairman PMYP engaged with Pakistan’s youth diaspora, NYC diaspora members, and students from Oxford and Cambridge Universities, acknowledging their critical role as ambassadors of Pakistan’s talent, values, and potential. He highlighted that nearly 70% of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 30, making youth the country’s greatest strategic asset. He shared PMYP’s vision under the 4Es Framework—Education, Employment, Engagement, and Environment, emphasizing inclusion, merit, and equal opportunity. Chairman PMYP outlined key flagship initiatives, including the Prime Minister’s Youth Laptop Scheme, under which more than 600,000 laptops have been distributed, PEEF scholarships, and youth skills development programs focused on future technologies such as artificial intelligence, data science, and blockchain. He also highlighted the achievements of the Youth Business & Agriculture Loan Scheme, through which PKR 64.4 billion has been disbursed to over 120,000 young entrepreneurs, with special focus on women, agriculture, SMEs, overseas employment, and technology startups. He encouraged diaspora youth to mentor startups, contribute innovative ideas, and collaborate in research, innovation, and venture development.
Chairman PMYP further emphasized youth engagement through platforms such as the Prime Minister’s National Youth Council, digital initiatives including the PM Digital Youth Hub with over 700,000 registered users, and participation in sports, culture, and environmental action through programs such as the Green Youth Movement and Prime Minister’s Youth Talent Hunt & Sports League.
Chairman PMYP stressed that the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme is not merely a government initiative but a national movement that unites youth at home and abroad under a shared vision. He encouraged continued collaboration, dialogue, and partnership, expressing confidence that Pakistan’s future is bright because its youth are skilled, innovative, and committed to national progress, while humanitarian institutions, digital platforms, and Esports initiatives collectively contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s positive image globally.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
