Islamabad: A high-level policy discussion focusing on leveraging Punjab’s demographic potential took place at Forman Christian College University (FCCU) on September 23, 2025. The event, titled “Harnessing the Demographic Dividend: Forging an Action Plan for Punjab,” saw government officials, academics, and development partners gather to validate a proposed action plan tailored for the province.

The meeting, organized by FCCU’s Population Research Center (PRC) in conjunction with the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), aimed to address Punjab’s demographic realities and formulate strategies to capitalize on its youthful population. The dialogue was backed by the Government of the Netherlands.

Key participants included Mr. Muhammad Masood Anwar, Chief Economist of Punjab’s Planning and Development Board, and Ms. Tania Durrani from UNFPA. Dr. Durre Nayab, lead author of the UNFPA action plan, delivered the keynote address.

Discussions centered on three crucial areas: prioritizing employability and job-driven expansion, transitioning from expenditure to strategic investments, and exploring innovative resource mobilization strategies beyond traditional budgets. Representatives from various provincial departments, including skills development, education, labor, and finance, contributed their expertise.

Academics from leading universities such as LUMS, Punjab University, and BNU also participated in the discourse. The session, moderated by PRC Director Dr. M. Vaqas Ali, concluded with closing remarks by SDPI’s Dr. Sajid Amin Javed.