An interactive session on Youth Engagement in National Integration & Social Cohesion was held on November 6, 2024, at BUITEMS Sub-Campus, Muslim Bagh. Organized by Wahab Ahmed, Lecturer in the Department of Management Sciences, the session aimed to raise awareness among students about the importance of social integration, national unity, and inclusivity. The two-hour event was conducted in person, featuring presentation slides, video clips, and discussions to engage students effectively.
The session commenced with an introduction by Wahab Ahmed, who outlined the core themes of national integration and social cohesion. The discussion highlighted the critical role of youth in fostering a harmonious society and explored various strategies to promote inclusivity and unity. Key topics included the definition and significance of national integration, factors influencing social cohesion, challenges to social harmony in contemporary society, and the proactive role of youth in bridging societal divides. The session also provided practical steps for strengthening national unity, such as promoting tolerance, participating in social welfare projects, and countering misinformation. Historical examples of successful national integration efforts from different countries were shared to illustrate how unity strengthens a nation.
The interactive nature of the session encouraged students to engage in meaningful discussions, share their perspectives on social harmony, and propose solutions to enhance community bonds. Participants actively contributed to case study analyses and role-playing exercises, which helped them understand real-world integration challenges. The session also included a dedicated question-and-answer segment, allowing students to explore the subject further and seek clarity on key issues.
Students responded positively to the session, expressing that it deepened their understanding of national integration and motivated them to take on leadership and volunteer roles in their communities. The session successfully instilled a sense of responsibility among students, emphasizing the power of inclusivity, respect, and active citizenship in building a cohesive society.
To sustain the momentum, several recommendations were made for future events. These include organizing follow-up workshops to develop student-led social integration initiatives, establishing a student club dedicated to promoting intercultural dialogue, inviting policy experts to discuss governance in national integration, and incorporating case study competitions and storytelling sessions to enhance student engagement.
The event effectively reinforced the significance of youth participation in fostering national cohesion and social harmony, leaving students inspired to contribute to a more inclusive and united society.