Skillistan

Calling all passionate Afghan youth! ???? Are you ready to learn, make an impact, and drive sustainable change in your community? The SDG Youth Fellowship 2025 is now open for applications! This two-month fellowship, designed by Climate and Environment Youth Initiative (CEYI) and Skillistan, is crafted to equip 100 motivated young changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and connections to contribute to local sustainable development in Afghanistan. ?? What’s in it for you? ? Learn about the SDGs & Afghanistan’s sustainability programs ? Deep dive into environmental SDGs, challenges & solutions ? Participate in 12 online training sessions & 2 discussion sessions ? Network with like-minded youth & professionals ? Receive a certificate & become part of an exclusive alumni network ?? Application Deadline: 20th March 2025 ?? Eligibility: Afghan youth (18-35) passionate about SDGs & local action ?? Women & youth from all provinces are highly encouraged to apply! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to become a leader in sustainability! ???? ?? Apply now: https://lnkd.in/dEzPZGHd #SDGYouthFellowship #Sustainability #ClimateAction #Afghanistan #YouthLeadership #CEYI #Skillistan

What does the future hold for Pakistan’s economy? This question was at the heart of #SDG8 workshop, where we explored the challenges and opportunities for?#DecentWorkandEconomicGrowth?in Pakistan. With the annual GDP per capita growth at?4.55% in 2021, it’s clear that our economy is at a critical juncture. The need for innovative, sustainable, and inclusive solutions has never been more urgent. But achieving this requires more than just economic policies, it demands political stability, youth empowerment, and a shift toward value-added industries. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s history of political instability, from 1971 to 2022, has repeatedly derailed our economic progress. This workshop was a reminder that stability is the foundation upon which sustainable growth is built. One of the key themes of the workshop was the importance of?#Youth Employment, training, and entrepreneurship. With one of the youngest populations in the world, Pakistan’s youth can be our greatest asset—or a potential source of unrest if not properly supported. We also delved into the National Youth Development Framework 2020, also known as the #KamyabJawanProgramme??This initiative aims to empower Pakistan’s youth through skills development, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities. At Skillistan, we are proud to align with this vision by equipping young people with?Green and Digital Skills—essential tools for thriving in a sustainable economy. We also emphasized the importance of?value addition?in our economic activities. Relying solely on raw material exports will not drive sustainable growth. As?Ludwig von Mises?pointed out,?“Economics is not about things and tangible material objects; it is about men, their meanings and actions.”?We must focus on innovation, technology, and human capital to create a resilient and inclusive economy. The workshop concluded with inspiring ideas from our Fellows, who proposed #InnovativeSolutions for economic development and youth employment. Their creativity and dedication are a testament to the potential of Pakistan’s future leaders. #SDGImpactLeaders #EconomicGrowth #YouthEmpowerment #Innovation

What does the future hold for Pakistan’s energy challenges? This was the central question that sparked an inspiring and thought-provoking discussion at yesterday’s SDG 7 workshop. The session brought together passionate fellows to explore affordable and clean energy targets, indicators, and solutions, not just for Pakistan but for the world, as we collectively tackle the urgent energy crisis. This #SDG7’s workshop took a deeper dive into innovation and collaboration, with a special focus on actionable solutions. We were honored to have?Shafqat Hussain, not as a Fellow this time, but as our esteemed?Guest Speaker, whose expertise and vision added immense value to the dialogue. His insights reminded us that the path to sustainable energy is paved with both challenges and opportunities. One of the highlights of the workshop was the?#BreakoutRoomActivity, where Fellows shared innovative solutions to address energy access and sustainability. From solar-powered microgrids to community-driven energy cooperatives, the ideas were as diverse as they were impactful. Each solution underscored the importance of local context, technological innovation, and community engagement in driving meaningful change. Sher Shah Khan ? reminded us that SDG 7 is more than just a goal, it’s a beacon of hope. Universal access to modern energy services by 2030 is not just a target; it’s a necessity for socioeconomic progress, environmental protection, and improved quality of life. Yet, the reality remains stark: millions still lack access to basic energy services, and the clock is ticking. As we reflect on SDG7’s workshop, let’s carry forward the energy and ideas that were shared. Let’s advocate for policy changes, invest in renewable energy, and empower communities to take charge of their energy futures. Together, we can illuminate not just homes, but also hearts, with hope and possibility. ?? #CleanEnergy #Sustainability #Innovation #RenewableEnergy #Collaboration

The #SDG6 Workshop was an enlightening deep dive into the complexities of water and sanitation challenges, particularly in the context of Pakistan. The session underscored the critical role of clean water and sanitation as the foundation of health, progress, and environmental balance. At Skillistan, we recognize that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right - yet, only 50.6% of Pakistan’s population had access to safely managed drinking water (OurWorldData 2022). This means that nearly half of the population lacks this most basic necessity - water to drink. If Pakistan continues to waste its water resources, the repercussions will be dire: worsening water scarcity, food insecurity, and public health crises. ?? Breaking Down SDG 6 Targets: Our discussions covered each of the SDG 6 targets in depth, reinforcing the urgency of action: ? 6.1 & 6.2 – Universal access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene by 2030. ? 6.3 & 6.4 – Enhancing water quality, reducing pollution, and improving water-use efficiency. ? 6.5 & 6.6 – Strengthening integrated water management and preserving water-related ecosystems. ? 6.A & 6.B – Promoting international cooperation and empowering local communities, with a particular focus on youth engagement. ??The session also actively engaged the fellows through a Breakout Room discussion, where they interreacted with the following questions: 1?? Have you ever personally experienced water shortages? How did it impact you? 2?? What actions can you take in your daily life to support SDG 6? 3?? How can you raise awareness about the water crisis and advocate for sustainable solutions? Let’s keep the momentum going. Water is life, and every drop counts. Together, we can shape a future where clean water and sanitation are not a privilege, but a universal right. Are you ready to take action for SDG 6? #CleanWater #SDGImpactLeaders #WaterManagement #WaterCrisis #WaterConservation

What Will Happen if Gender Inequality in Pakistan Is Left Unchecked? A society that ignores gender inequality risks economic stagnation, social injustice, and limited progress. When women and girls are denied equal opportunities, we all lose! Ensuring gender equality is not just about fairness, it’s about unlocking the full potential of our communities. At Skillistan, we are dedicated to fostering gender equality through education and empowerment. Our recent #SDGImpactLeadersFellowship workshop focused on #SDG5: Gender Equality, our purpose is for every participant to develop a deep understanding of this fundamental goal by exploring its targets and indicators. The workshop tackled common misconceptions surrounding gender equality in Pakistan and emphasized the critical role of SDG 5 in achieving sustainable development. ??SDG 5 is not just a goal, it’s a foundation for all other SDGs. When women and girls have equal rights and opportunities, societies become more just, prosperous, and resilient. Here’s What We Discussed in the Breakout Room: ?? What can you do for SDG 5 at home? ?? What are your solutions for women’s empowerment in Pakistan? ?? Can we achieve other SDGs without SDG 5? Fellows shared the need to promote equal opportunities, challenge stereotypes, and share responsibilities at home. They also emphasized that, at the very least, people can show appreciation for women’s contributions, recognizing that beyond their jobs, they also manage homes, children, and families. Using words of affirmation can make a significant impact. Also, fellows second that gender equality is deeply interconnected with all SDGs. So, let’s continue working towards a future where gender equality is the norm, not the exception. #GenderEquality ?#EmpowerWomen #WomenLeadership #EqualOpportunities

What happens if Pakistan’s education system remains the same? Can we truly excel if our teachers are under qualified or unfit for the role? These were some of the thought-provoking questions that set the tone for today’s SDG 4: Quality Education workshop as part of the SDG Impact Leaders Fellowship. The session was nothing short of insightful, eye-opening, and action-driven! ?? Understanding SDG 4 – We explored its targets and indicators, breaking down what it truly means to ensure inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all. ?? Challenges & Solutions – From outdated curricula to the lack of teacher training, we discussed systemic gaps and brainstormed youth-driven solutions to improve access, quality, and relevance in education. ?? Breakout Room Discussions – Fellows shared real-world experiences, debated pressing issues, and proposed innovative reforms to create a more impactful, skill-based, and inclusive education system. ?? Key Takeaway: A nation’s progress is directly linked to the quality of its education. If we don’t act now, we risk holding back generations from reaching their full potential. It’s time to push for reforms, invest in teacher training, and ensure that education prepares young people for the challenges of tomorrow. Our Fellows left this session with a renewed commitment to advocating for quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. The future of education is in our hands—let’s shape it wisely! Sher Shah Khan ? #SDGImpactLeaders #Skillistan #SDG4 #QualityEducation

??Join Us for an Exclusive Webinar on Sustainable Dairy Farming in Asia 2025!???? The Environment Protection Society, University of Chakwal and Skillistan invite you to an insightful session on the “Sustainable Dairy Farming in Asia 2025”. Learn from industry experts about sustainable practices, climate resilience, and innovative solutions for the dairy sector. ?? Date: 15th February 2025 ? Time: 7:30 PM (Pakistan Time) ?? Platform: Zoom (Link will be shared in WhatsApp group after registration) ?? E-Certificate: Provided upon completion ??? Guest Speakers: ? Mr. Sher Shah Khan– COP 29 COY 19 Azerbaijan Delegate | Founder, CEO Skillistan ? Prof. Muhammad Subhan Qureshi – President, Dairy Science Park ? Dr. Asma Younis – Subject Specialist in Biology, Quaid-e-Azam Academy for Educational Development, Sargodha ?? Register now to secure your spot! ?? Google Form Registration Link: https://lnkd.in/dHb7CMSy

Reflecting on our recent #SDG3 workshop, we are filled with a profound sense of purpose and achievement. This fellowship is not just about acquiring knowledge—it is about translating insights into action. As we strive toward the Sustainable Development Goals, the need to prioritize healthcare accessibility and financial resilience has never been more urgent. SDG 3, #GoodHealth & #Wellbeing is often overshadowed in mainstream discussions, yet it remains one of the most fundamental pillars of sustainable development. This session aimed to bridge the gap by unpacking key issues surrounding healthcare in Pakistan: ?? In 2019, healthcare expenditure per capita stood at $192. ?? By 2020, 20.2% of the population faced significant health expenditures. ?? In 2018, 5.39% of households spent over 10% of their income on healthcare. Recognizing the depth of this challenge, we ensured our Fellows received a comprehensive understanding of all 13 Targets and 28 indicators within SDG 3. Using maps, data visualizations, and interactive activities, we not only enhanced their learning but also instilled a sense of responsibility to drive change within their communities. The future of healthcare depends on strong partnerships, policy reforms, and financial inclusivity—ensuring that no one is left behind. As we move forward, let’s continue to push for a world where quality healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all. ???? Sher Shah Khan ?| Ali Tharwani | Noor Ul Ain | Bakhtawar B. | Sania Rehman | Javeria Rehmat | Arooj Fatima | Muhammad Talha | Muhammad Ali Zafar | Ubaid Ali | Vaneezy Gul | Tahira Khan #GlobalGoals #SDG3 #HealthForAll #Sustainability #YouthForChange #SDGImpactLeaders

What Will Happen if We Remain Indifferent to Hunger in Pakistan? If we continue to ignore the silent cries of hunger, the consequences will be catastrophic—rising malnutrition, economic instability, social unrest, and an irreversible decline in human potential. In 2024, Pakistan ranked 109th out of 127 countries on the #GlobalHungerIndex, with a score of 27.9, signaling a worsening crisis. In 2021, 42.3% of the population faced moderate or severe food insecurity, making inaction no longer an option. #FoodInsecurity, as defined by the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), manifests in two primary forms: ?? Moderate – Struggling to access nutritious food consistently. ?? Severe – Lacking access to sufficient food quantities. This issue extends beyond Pakistan, affecting nations across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, fueled by climate change, economic instability, and inefficient food distribution systems. The unchecked consequences of hunger threaten to destabilize communities, widen inequalities, and hinder progress toward sustainable development. The urgency of this crisis was highlighted in today’s #SDG2 workshop, where we explored its targets and indicators in depth. The discussion emphasized the importance of aligning efforts with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) to ensure sustainable and equitable food systems. Key strategies discussed included: ?? Climate-resilient agriculture to mitigate the effects of climate change on food production. ?? Food waste reduction to optimize resource use. ?? Supply chain improvements for better food distribution. ?? Community-based food systems & urban farming to enhance local food security. ?? Enhanced social protection programs to support vulnerable populations. Our breakout room discussions underscored the significance of collaboration in addressing hunger, with Fellows presenting innovative approaches to tackling this pressing issue. We were honored to have Farah Atiq as guest speakers, who shared impactful initiatives for SDG 2, inspiring us to rethink our approach to hunger eradication. The #SDGImpactLeadersFellowship continues to gain momentum as we explore critical global challenges. With two SDGs covered and fifteen more to go, the journey ahead remains both challenging and promising. Ignoring hunger is no longer an option. As Buzz Aldrin once said, "If we can conquer space, we can conquer childhood hunger." The question now is: Are we ready to step up and be part of the solution? Sher Shah Khan ?| Ali Tharwani | Noor Ul Ain | Bakhtawar B. | Sania Rehman | Javeria Rehmat | Arooj Fatima | Muhammad Talha | Muhammad Ali Zafar | Ubaid Ali | Vaneezy Gul | Tahira Khan #ZeroHunger #HungerCrisis #FoodWasteReduction #SocialImpact #UrbanFarming #FoodSystems

?? AJK Youth, it's time to take action!?? Join us TODAY at 7 PM (PKT) for an impactful discussion on Climate Governance with Sher Shah Khan ? A leading Climate Activist and Founder & CEO of Skillistan! ?? Zoom Link: https://lnkd.in/d-NHiDzi ?? Meeting ID: 830 10651875 ?? Passcode: 104124 Certificates will be provided Be part of the movement. Let’s turn awareness into action! ?? #Skillistan #Climate #SDGs #SDG13