Pakistan ‘still far’ from becoming a social welfare state: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Wednesday that Pakistan has "still far" from developing into a social welfare state, which he asserted was the original intent behind the nation's establishment. The premier made these remarks during an event in Islamabad to commemorate International Youth Day 2026, which falls on August 12.

During his address, Shehbaz also unveiled several initiatives aimed at supporting young people, such as the Power Sector Innovation Programme, the National Youth Employment Policy, and the Skills Ambassador Programme.

In his speech, Shehbaz highlighted how the Daanish schools represented a step towards ensuring equal opportunities for advancement among youth, regardless of their financial background. He emphasized that as Punjab's chief minister, he had launched Daanish schools to improve access to quality education for disadvantaged individuals.

"How unfortunate it is that, on one hand, there exists a Pakistan catering to the children of the elite, who not only receive the finest education in Pakistan but also attend leading international institutions in the UK and North America, while on the other hand, millions of children whose parents yearn for an education are denied even basic educational opportunities," Shehbaz lamented.

The inauguration ceremony also showcased promising students from Daanish schools. Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, expressed that his team is "working day and night for our youth." Khan commended Prime Minister Shehbaz for offering opportunities during his tenure as Punjab's chief minister and praised the premier's leadership for propelling Pakistan forward.

Khan remarked, "The world is talking about Pakistan's progress today," indicating a positive outlook on the country's advances.