BY: ANI Correspondent:
KARACHI — Students and academics from Indonesia and Pakistan gathered at Iqra University, Karachi, for the Indonesia–Pakistan Academic Youth Forum 2026, aimed at promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and stronger youth engagement between the two countries.
Organised by the Consulate General of Indonesia in Karachi in collaboration with Iqra University and Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), the forum focused on the theme, “Celebrating Independence, Building the Future: The Role of Indonesian and Pakistani Youth in Bridging Friendship and Global Cooperation.”
The forum provided a platform to discuss youth leadership, education, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship, while participants explored shared challenges and ways young people can contribute to national development.
The programme also featured institutional presentations, cultural performances, interactive activities and group sessions, enabling Indonesian and Pakistani students to exchange experiences and deepen cultural understanding.
Dr. M. Zaki Rashidi, Director of Iqra University Main Campus, highlighted the importance of cross-border youth cooperation, while Dian Ratri Astuti, Consul for Information and Socio-Cultural Affairs at the Indonesian Consulate General in Karachi, stressed the growing role of academic and youth diplomacy in addressing global challenges such as artificial intelligence, climate change and economic uncertainty.
Held following the Independence Days of Pakistan and Indonesia, the forum also highlighted the shared responsibility of young people to promote innovation, social development and stronger international partnerships.
The event further opened avenues for cooperation between UMY and Iqra University, including student and faculty exchanges, joint seminars, collaborative research, guest lectures and cultural programmes.
