The use of technology in public administration, policing and education was discussed at a large gathering in Abbottabad, where government representatives, academics, business professionals and students exchanged views on improving institutional services and preparing young people for emerging fields. The discussions took place during the ninth Metrix Pakistan Youth Summit at COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus. The event was organised by Metrix Pakistan in collaboration with the Directorate of Youth Affairs, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, District Administration Abbottabad and District Youth Office Abbottabad. Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad Capt (retd) Sarmad Saleem Akram, speaking as chief guest, highlighted the importance of contemporary scientific knowledge and digital literacy for the younger generation. He said technological developments were influencing both the workplace and the way public institutions interacted with citizens. He also reviewed student projects and startup concepts presented at the event, observing that young people could contribute to solving practical community problems when provided with suitable opportunities and institutional guidance. The district administration’s efforts towards digital service delivery were discussed by Assistant Commissioner Abbottabad Afrasyab Zubair Hundal. He briefed participants about the proposed Khidmatguzaar mobile application, which is intended to make access to government services easier and reduce administrative delays. District Police Officer Haroon Rashid Khan discussed the application of digital tools in policing and public protection. His presentation covered crime mapping, emergency response, child safety, traffic management and measures to address cybercrime. The summit also provided an opportunity for students to examine the relationship between academic education and professional requirements. Sessions covered artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, blockchain, digital marketing, entrepreneurship and digital media. Students participated in an exhibition where they displayed projects and initiatives. Industry professionals and academics interacted with the participants, discussing the practical applications of their work and the skills needed in emerging sectors. A separate startup pitching session allowed young entrepreneurs to present their business concepts before industry representatives. The presentations gave participants practical exposure to business communication, product development, market research and potential investment opportunities. District Youth Officer Bushra Masroor said cooperation among youth, educational institutions and professional organisations could create more opportunities for students to develop their skills and build professional networks. She also received an Excellence Award during the programme for her work relating to youth engagement and women’s empowerment. COMSATS Abbottabad Dean of the Faculty of Sciences Prof Dr Jamshed Iqbal, recipient of Tamgha-i-Imtiaz and Sitara-i-Imtiaz, and Ghias Shah participated in the proceedings on behalf of the university. The academic sessions highlighted research, innovation and the role of universities in developing skills relevant to emerging industries. More than 15 speakers and industry representatives participated in the programme, including Qaisar Akash Khan, Ammad Ali, Founder and CEO of RankingGrow, Waqar Ali, CEO of Zarar TV, Kashif Ali, CEO of TechKhwa, Dr Faiza Nawaz of Hazara University Mansehra and Muhammad Junaid Iqbal. Rizwan, Community Manager of Binance Pakistan, conducted a Binance Academy workshop focusing on blockchain education. The concluding session included awards for individuals recognised for contributions in healthcare, research, welfare, medicine and the arts. Ashfaq Ahmad of Swabi was recognised for establishing an emergency orthopaedic, sports and spine centre in Topi. Dr Faisal Khan of COMSATS Abbottabad was recognised for his research contributions and more than 157 publications. Shakeel Ahmed Tanoli received recognition for welfare activities, while Dr Shah Khalid of Battagram was recognised for his contribution to neurosurgery and specialised healthcare services in the Hazara region. Adam Khan received recognition for his contributions to the arts. Digital content creators from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were also presented with Content Creator Awards for their work in digital media and regional storytelling. The gathering concluded with discussions on closer cooperation between government institutions, universities and the private sector, particularly in areas involving digital services, research, skills development and opportunities for young people.
