Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, addressed a convocation at the University of Sindh in Jamshoro, where he emphasized the critical role of youth in shaping Pakistan’s future. He reiterated the urgency of addressing climate change, the need for equitable digital access, and the importance of green infrastructure to secure a sustainable future for the country.
In his speech, Chairman Bilawal highlighted that over 65% of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 30, and the future of the nation lies in their hands. “You are the future of this country,” he told the graduates. “However, the decisions being made by those in power, many of whom are over 60, often fail to account for the needs and aspirations of our youth.”
Digital Rights and Unrestricted Internet Access
Chairman Bilawal stressed the need for new legislation to ensure equitable and unrestricted internet access, a necessity for sustainable development in the digital age. He emphasized the role of the internet as a fundamental right and criticized government censorship. He noted that many senior officials in Islamabad, who often make decisions regarding internet policies, do not fully comprehend the importance of the internet due to their lack of personal engagement with it. “The internet is a powerful tool for the youth, but we face challenges such as internet blockages and restrictions,” he said.
Bilawal announced his intention to introduce a Digital Rights Bill in the National Assembly, which would enshrine the digital rights of Pakistan’s citizens. He also called on students to engage in this struggle, urging them to share their thoughts and suggestions for the bill on social media platforms.
Climate Change: A Growing Threat to Pakistan
Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, Chairman Bilawal warned that Pakistan remains woefully unprepared for the threats posed by global warming, particularly the melting of glaciers in the Himalayas that feed into the Indus River. He called for immediate action to build climate-resilient infrastructure. “We cannot continue to rely on outdated infrastructure; the country must shift its focus to green alternatives,” he stressed.
The PPP Chairman also took the government to task for its failure to address the ongoing electricity crisis in Sindh, despite claims of a surplus. “While they claim that load-shedding has ended, we still face electricity shortages in Sindh. How can this be justified when they say there is a surplus of electricity?” he asked.
Green Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari advocated for investment in green infrastructure, including wind, solar, and hydropower energy sources, as a sustainable alternative to the country’s dependence on expensive and polluting electricity. He called for a shift in focus from conventional infrastructure like roads and railways to a green economy that can withstand the impacts of climate change.
He also questioned the government’s continued reliance on costly, non-renewable energy sources, urging a transition to more environmentally friendly and cost-effective options.
A Call to Action for the Youth
In his concluding remarks, Bilawal urged students to take an active role in the fight against climate change, digital censorship, and environmental degradation. He emphasized the importance of education, calling it the greatest gift parents can provide. “Knowledge is the most valuable asset you can possess,” he said. “It is something that can never be taken away from you, unlike property or money.”
He also recalled the pivotal role that students have historically played in Pakistan’s social and political movements. “This is why student unions are banned to this day—they fear the power of students,” he stated, drawing attention to the ongoing struggle for democracy and rights in Pakistan.
Chairman Bilawal concluded by congratulating the graduates and expressing hope that today’s youth would step into leadership roles and work towards building a cleaner, greener, and more just Pakistan.
The event was attended by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, who also congratulated the students for their achievements. Medals and certificates were distributed to the graduates, marking the culmination of their academic journey at the University of Sindh.
