"Their selection highlights not only their individual achievements but also the caliber and leadership skills of students emerging from AKU's graduate programmes," said Dr Tazeen Saeed Ali, interim dean, AKU-SONAM.

Both Imran and Ubedullah, while serving as representatives of their respective constituencies will also be serving on the YPP Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination.

The Youth Parliament Pakistan serves as a platform designed to empower young individuals across Pakistan, regardless of their background or region. It aims to educate participants on global, national, and local issues while equipping them with skills and knowledge to become responsible citizens and future leaders of the nation.

Established by the Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) in 2007, the Youth Parliament Pakistan has been instrumental in nurturing leadership qualities among approximately 1,000 young Pakistanis of 18 to 29 years from all provinces and territories of Pakistan. 

"The YPP offers a range of activities, including plenary discussions, parliamentary-style debates, and engagements with field leaders and experts. These activities greatly help foster critical thinking, leadership skills, decision-making, and political awareness among us," explained Imran Mughal.

"The agenda of the parliament encompasses a wide array of topics, including human rights, education, healthcare, foreign policy, climate change, and sustainable development. Through committee discussions, policy recommendations, and interactions with governmental bodies and the media, we get to engage in-depth with pressing issues, and learn from peers and experts," said Ubedullah, member of the Tharparkar constituency. 

Members of the 18th Youth Parliament Pakistan will have the opportunity to serve for the full calendar year 2024, participating in both virtual and in-person sessions conducted in Islamabad.  They will engage in various activities, courses, and interactions with thought leaders, parliamentarians, and international youth parliament colleagues.

Furthermore, members will have the chance to network with influential figures from diverse sectors, including government officials, business leaders, social justice advocates, technological innovators, and professionals. This networking opportunity will enrich their experiences and broaden their horizons.

With a total of 300 members representing constituencies from across Pakistan, including Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, and overseas Pakistanis, Ubedullah and Imran are set to hone their leadership skills, understand government-level policymaking, and represent nursing on a national, inter-disciplinary platform.