Ahsan Iqbal Launches Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholars Programme 2026 -

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, has said that Pakistan’s greatest national asset is not its nuclear capability but its talented youth, emphasizing that the true strength of nations lies in investing in human capital, quality education, modern skills, and policy continuity.

He expressed these views while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the URAAN Pakistan “Mitti Ki Pukar” Overseas Pakistanis Summer Scholars Programme 2026 held in Islamabad on Wednesday.

The Minister announced that nearly 2,000 applications were received from 54 countries for this year’s programme.

Following a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based selection process, 45 exceptional Overseas Pakistani students representing 150 of the world’s leading universities were selected . Congratulating the scholars, he said they had earned their place through an extremely competitive and transparent process.

He said the two-month programme offers Overseas Pakistani students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within Pakistan’s public sector, understand the policymaking process, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s national development agenda.

Highlighting a unique feature of this year’s cohort, the Minister noted that, alongside Pakistani participants, the programme also welcomes three international scholars from foreign countries, reflecting the programme’s growing international recognition and appeal.

Ahsan Iqbal said that over the coming weeks, the scholars will work closely with the senior leadership of the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, contributing innovative ideas and global perspectives to the implementation of URAAN Pakistan’s 5Es Framework—Exports, E-Pakistan, Energy, Environment, and Equity & Empowerment.

Their contributions, he said, will help strengthen evidence-based policymaking and transform knowledge into practical solutions for national progress.

The Minister remarked that he is often asked about his primary responsibility in government, to which he always responds that his foremost mission is to build Pakistan’s youth.

He stressed that no nation achieves sustainable prosperity through natural resources alone; rather, long-term success is driven by investment in people, education, skills, and innovation.

He added that whenever the Pakistan Muslim League (N) has been entrusted with public office, empowering young people through education, skills development, and opportunities has remained one of its highest priorities.-ERMD

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