The University of Management and Technology (UMT) hosted the concluding ceremony of the two-day Pakistan Youth Carnival 2026, bringing together young volunteers, civic leaders and technology advocates to discuss artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, leadership and the skills needed for the future.
The carnival was organized by Volunteers Leading Governance (VLG) in collaboration with the Sitara-o-Hilal Foundation (SHF). Punjab Chief Minister’s Advisor for AI and Special Initiatives Ali Dar attended the closing ceremony as chief guest, while former provincial minister and VLG Founder Ibrahim Murad participated as a special guest.
The ceremony at UMT featured discussions on artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, youth engagement, leadership and future-oriented skills. Participants also highlighted the contribution of young volunteers to social welfare and community service across Punjab.
Marking Pakistan’s Independence Day, Ali Dar and Ibrahim Murad cut a cake decorated in the colours of the national flag and offered prayers for the country’s security, prosperity, development and stability.
Addressing the ceremony, Ibrahim Murad said approximately 16,000 young people from across Punjab have joined VLG as volunteers. He said the volunteers have participated in clean-up drives, plantation campaigns, welfare initiatives and other community activities, while also assisting Rescue 1122 and relevant institutions during floods and relief operations.
Murad said the spirit of service among young people is a guarantee of Pakistan’s bright future, adding that volunteerism enables young people to contribute to positive social change while developing the foundations of responsible leadership.
He said the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s founding generation placed a responsibility on the younger generation to contribute to national development through education, service, hard work and strong character.
Speaking as the chief guest, Ali Dar congratulated Pakistanis on Independence Day and highlighted Punjab’s potential in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Dar said the Punjab government’s vision is to make Punjab the most AI-enabled province in South Asia by 2029. He said the province has world-class talent and the potential to emerge as a regional leader in artificial intelligence and modern technology.
He stressed the importance of equipping young people with AI, modern technology and future-oriented skills, saying artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities in employment, entrepreneurship, innovation and economic growth.
Dar described Pakistan’s young population as the country’s most valuable asset and said investment in modern skills could help Pakistan secure a stronger position globally in technology and artificial intelligence.
The chief guest also praised VLG Founder Ibrahim Murad for his contribution to youth engagement and volunteerism, describing him as a sincere, hardworking and kind-hearted individual.
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The ceremony concluded with the distribution of awards and certificates among VLG members who demonstrated outstanding performance. The awards were presented by Ali Dar and Ibrahim Murad, while Murad later presented a souvenir to the chief guest.
