Ms. Misbah Khar, Advisor to Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, urged young Pakistanis to embrace peace, tolerance and compassion while addressing an awards ceremony at Westminster School in Bahria Town, Islamabad. Speaking to students, parents and teachers, she congratulated high-achieving pupils and thanked educators for their dedication.
Highlighting the school motto Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts, she said that quality education and personal care are central to nurturing responsible citizens. Ms. Khar stressed that youth leadership begins in everyday settings such as classrooms and homes, where small acts of empathy strengthen communities.
On the theme of global unity she remarked, “When we see the Earth from space, we don’t see borders or barriers, we see unity — one planet, one human race.” She reminded students that peace and tolerance are learned through listening before judging, understanding before reacting, and choosing kindness even when it is difficult.
Drawing inspiration from figures like Greta Thunberg and the late Arfa Karim, Ms. Khar said leadership is not confined to titles but is reflected in taking responsibility and initiative. She encouraged the audience to practise youth leadership by taking small, consistent actions that add up to meaningful change.
Addressing pressing challenges such as climate change and inequality, she expressed confidence in the creativity and resolve of Pakistan’s young generation. Ms. Khar urged students to align their goals with the Sustainable Development Goals and to lead with integrity and compassion to drive local and national progress.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, she reminded the students that “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” She closed by calling on the youth to believe in themselves and their country, saying the story of Pakistan is still being written and they are the authors of its next chapter.
