Ahsan Iqbal Calls on Youth to Help Reach $3 Trillion Economy by 2047

Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal told a university ceremony that Pakistan's youth must drive practical solutions to hit a $3 trillion economy target by 2047.

NationPulse Desk

Oct 28, 2026 · 11:12 PM 2 min read

Key takeaways

Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan aims for a $3 trillion economy by 2047 and urged youth involvement.

The Bano Shaheen Program has completed 1,700 teams and now has chapters in over 165 universities.

Iqbal highlighted a scholarship scheme offering 5,000 scholarships for students from poorest districts.

He called for bringing 25 million out-of-school children into education and tackling child malnutrition.

The minister warned about fake news and urged critical thinking in the AI era.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan's youth can play a central role in transforming the country into a $3 trillion economy by 2047, urging young people to focus on practical solutions to national challenges.

Speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad's Quaid-i-Azam University that marked the completion of 1,700 teams under the Bano Shaheen Program, Iqbal noted the scheme seeks to involve young people in spotting socioeconomic problems and crafting answers. He said the creation of 50 Bano Shaheen chapters at the university marked an important milestone, while the ministry has set up chapters in more than 165 universities across the country.

The minister added that reaching the $3 trillion goal would need sound policies, continuity, effective implementation and a supportive environment for talent and investment. He cited Vietnam's export growth as an illustration of how sustained development can lift a nation.

Iqbal also pointed to education and human development as national priorities, calling for efforts to bring 25 million out-of-school children into schools and to tackle child malnutrition. He mentioned a scholarship programme that has launched 5,000 scholarships for youth from the poorest districts, including Balochistan and the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas.

He further emphasized the role of technology, digital access and responsible communication, warning that fake news and misinformation are challenges in the age of artificial intelligence and social media. Iqbal urged young people to verify information, develop critical thinking and contribute to Pakistan's economic development as the nation nears its centenary of independence in 2047.