The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives on Tuesday gave Development Leadership Awards to 75 personalities for their significant contributions in the development of Pakistan.
It also launched the Prime Minister’s Ba-Ikhtiyar Naujawan Internship Programme (BNIP) to award 60,000 internships to young graduates empowering them with on-job training and valuable work experience at a ceremony held here, a news release said.
The ceremony was attended by Secretary Planning Syed Zafar Ali Shah, Chief Economist, the awardees, students and people from different walks of life.
Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsa Iqbal was the chief guest at the occasion.
The awards were categorized into high achiever (over 40 years of age) who has contributed significantly to the socioeconomic development of Pakistan, and Emerging Young Leaders of the country (under 40 years of age) who would lead “our way to prosperity” and Overseas Pakistanis who have dedicated their resources to Pakistan’s development.
Ba-Ikhtiyar Naujawan Internship Programme (BNIP) is an initiative of the Planning Ministry aimed at empowering the youth by offering 60,000 paid internships to young graduates.
Each internship would last for a period of 6-12 months, during which candidates to receive both off-job and on-job training, and equip themselves with marketable skills and practical experience.
Additionally, a monthly stipend ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000 will be provided.
This programme presents a remarkable opportunity for young graduates to gain valuable work experience and enhance their prospects in the job market, explained Rafiullah Kakar, Member (Social Sector & Devolution) at the Planning Commission, who implemented this project in a short span of time.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal said the Development Leadership Awards highlighted the profound impact that dedicated individuals and organizations could make in promoting economic development, social prosperity, and a healthier society,
“This recognition serves as an inspiration to our young generation, instilling hope and optimism,” the minister said while lauding the contributions of award recipients for the country’s development.
