RAWALPINDI, July 15: The youth should equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and skill to shoulder future responsibilities, the youth affairs minister, Col S.K. Tressler (retired), said here on Monday.

The minister stated this while inaugurating a one week ‘See Pakistan National Youth Camp 2002’. The camp was represented by about 70 youths from all over the country. They will visit Taxila, Tarbela, Hazara and the Northern Areas.

He said: “Our youth was no less than those of other countries, but the need is to train and guide them properly.”

The Asian Genius Award, he added, had been won by a Pakistani this year, “which reflects our youth’s capabilities”.

Our country’s population consists of 35 million youths whose role cannot be ignored. That is why the government was working on a new youth policy, which would be ready by this month for catering to the future needs of our young generation, the minister said.

Highlighting the importance of the National Youth Camp, the minister said it would provide an opportunity to the youth of different provinces to interact and work with each other and develop an understanding of each other’s cultural backgrounds.

He said this would create harmony which was essential for nation- building process.

Mr Tressler urged to contribute towards reforming Pakistan according to the vision of Quaid-i-Azam.