The Centre for Development and Stability (CDS) has been launched here in Islamabad, aiming to provide a platform for youth-led research and dialogue on pressing national issues across Pakistan.
The team of the Centre for Development and Stability aimed to work diligently with a motu of “empowering innovation for sustainable growth and stability.”
Speaking on the occasion, Director General of CDS, Irfan Ashraf said the country is lagging in the field of research on pressing issues like terrorism, one of the biggest scourge faced by the nation.
“Our vision is to conduct and provide research on economic and geopolitical issues by approaching educated youth, young students and media persons to navigate their innovative ideas for outcome-oriented endeavours.
“Our youth is directly affected by unemployment and poor performance of political leadership and governments and the international hostile powers are exploiting such fault lines to divide and spoil the nation,” he added.
“We will try to bridge the gap between youth and policymakers. We welcome all research ideas and surveys, and encourage everyone to take part in CDS activities,” he added.
The Forum would provide accurate and timely reports founded on ground-based research, facts and data related to global conflicts and tensions, explore root causes of poor governance and national integration through inclusive initiatives and youth mobilization, he said.
Under the patronage of Brig (R) Asif Haroon Raja, the Centre would welcome everyone to work voluntarily as this organization was a not-for-profit forum, he said.
Meanwhile, the CDS signed its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ripah University and Youth Council to promote its objective of youth-led think tanks and policy research initiatives.
Patron in Chief, CDS, Brig (R) Asif Haroon Raja the forum is the right place for national ideas for national service as at present, Pakistan is suffering from a battle of minds (referring to information warfare) as perceptions were being manufactured and spread across the world against the country.
The monopoly of Western media is dominating the information landscape whereas India and Israel are causing subversion attempts against Pakistan,” he said.
“It’s a platform where we can put in our apolitical efforts with national spirit in mind, as 1000 think-tanks are supporting the US for its policy and development and endeavours and we also need to change our attitudes and think forward to serve our nation in the same spirit,” he added.
Focus on Youth Engagement:
CDS emphasizes engaging educated youth, students, and media professionals to bring innovative solutions to the table.
The organization highlights concerns about youth unemployment and lack of engagement in policy discussions.
Addressing National Challenges:
CDS plans to research critical issues like terrorism, economic challenges, and geopolitical matters.
They aim to bridge the gap between policymakers and youth by facilitating discussions and generating debate.
Key Areas of Research:
Geopolitical developments, industrial sector challenges, water and energy crises, tourism, and infrastructure improvement.
Climate change impacts, refugee crisis, trade and economic policies, and cyber security.
International Collaboration and Support:
CDS plans international events with Pakistani diplomatic missions and student exchange programs.
The platform will engage national experts and provide support to students through various initiatives.
Moving Forward:
CDS operates as a non-profit organization and welcomes volunteers.
The platform provides an opportunity for youth to contribute to national development through research and dialogue.
