Pak-Afghan Youth Peace Initiative

We’re thrilled to share the success of our recent Pak-Afghan Youth Peace Initiative’s kickoff event hosted by CRSS at the University of Peshawar, Bara Gali campus. Over three interactive and immersive days, we engaged in meaningful dialogue, workshops, and cultural exchanges aimed at fostering understanding and peace between Pakistani and Afghan youth.

Facilitated by CRSS in collaboration with the Department of Political Science, University of Peshawar, and the Afghanistan Women Association (AWA), this initiative brought together sixteen bright minds, eight from Pakistan and eight from Afghanistan, to discuss critical issues and explore avenues for cooperation.

Highlights included:
🔹 Insightful discussions on regional challenges and opportunities.
🔹 Workshops on youth leadership, peacebuilding processes, and climate resilience led by field experts.
🔹 Engaging sessions on narrative building and climate sustainability.
🔹 Cultural night featuring enchanting performances, bonfire, and camaraderie.

As we reflect on the program’s impact, we’re energized by the commitment of our youth participants to drive positive change in their communities through their social action plans. Their passion and dedication inspire us to continue our efforts in promoting peace and stability in the region.

The project is led by Elsa Imdad Hussain, Global UGRAD-Pakistan alumna and CRSS research fellow. Elsa secured this grant through the Global UGRAD Pakistan Big Ideas Challenge grants. The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program in Pakistan is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, with funding provided by the U.S. Government and administered by IREX.

Stay tuned for updates on upcoming phases of the initiative, including meetings with high government officials, social action plans, and mainstream media engagements.