TIMES REPORT
PESHAWAR: A four-day training camp on “Civic Engagement, Social Change and Development” concluded today at Baragali Summer Camp, University of Peshawar. The camp was organized by Vibrant Perspective (SMC-Private) Ltd., sponsored by the Directorate of Youth Affairs, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in collaboration with the Department of History, University of Peshawar.
The training camp, held from April 23 to 26, 2026, brought together over 100 youth participants from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the Newly Merged Districts. The initiative aimed to equip young leaders with knowledge and skills to promote active citizenship, community development, and constructive social change.
The four-day program featured a blend of interactive learning sessions, group work, role-playing exercises, and exposure visits. Thematic sessions covered civic responsibility and democratic values, social change and leadership, sustainable development, and dialogue and conflict resolution. Participants also engaged in structured debates and team-building activities designed to foster critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.
Representatives from the Directorate of Youth Affairs KP actively participated throughout the camp, including Zubair Khattak, Deputy Director; Muhammad Irfan Sardar, Deputy Director; Muhammad Usman, Assistant Director; and Muhammad Zabi, Assistant Director. Academic experts and development practitioners facilitated sessions, sharing insights on youth engagement strategies and grassroots development models.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chairman, Department of History, University of Peshawar, emphasized the importance of such platforms. “Investing in youth capacity is investing in the future of KP. This camp has provided participants with the tools to become agents of positive change in their communities,” he said. Mr. Zubair Khattak lauded the collaboration, noting that “civic education is essential for strengthening democratic culture. Our youth have shown remarkable energy and commitment during these four days.” The CEO of Vibrant Perspective thanked all partners and participants, stating that “social change begins with informed and engaged citizens. We are confident these young leaders will take these lessons back to their districts and create impact.”
Participants described the camp as transformative and highly practical. Many highlighted the exposure visits and peer learning as the most valuable components. “We learned how to turn ideas into action. I’m returning home with a plan for a youth forum in my area,” said one participant from South Waziristan.
The organizers announced that follow-up activities, including community projects and mentorship support, will be launched to help participants implement local initiatives. Certificates of participation were distributed to all attendees.
The camp is part of a broader effort by the Directorate of Youth Affairs KP to promote constructive youth engagement and build resilience against apathy and extremism through education and empowerment.
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