SUKKUR-UNS: Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has emphasized that the digital space in Pakistan is under threat, urging the youth to engage in “democratic and peaceful resistance” to secure digital rights, including high-speed internet.
Addressing at the convocation ceremony of Sukkur IBA University, Chairman PPP said, “It is a matter of pride for me that this institution was established by my mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, during her second tenure as Prime Minister. The seed planted by her has now grown into a tree, earning recognition not only nationally but also globally.” He highlighted that students from across Pakistan and even international students from countries like Sri Lanka are receiving education at the university.
Discussing the role of students in addressing national challenges and enhancing Pakistan’s global image, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, “Students must utilize their knowledge for Pakistan’s development. Today, we face challenges such as poverty, economic inequality, and climate change.” He added, “It is the government’s duty to control various aspects of governance, but when it attempts to overstep and control individuals or institutions, it is up to the youth to resist these efforts and assert their rights.”
He reminded the audience that every generation has fought for its rights. “Democracy wasn’t handed to us as a gift; it was achieved through struggle. Generations of youth, using their education, voices, and skills, have defeated oppressors time and again. From the colonial era to today, the youth have been at the forefront.”
Chairman PPP expressed concern about the current state of the digital space in Pakistan. He called upon the youth to engage in peaceful and democratic struggles for their digital rights. He criticized the outdated understanding of technology by decision-makers in Islamabad, stating, “How can bureaucrats in their 60s, who still use old Nokia phones, comprehend the rights of the digital generation? How would they understand WhatsApp, Netflix, or gaming? We must claim our rights from them.” He further noted the irony of how two young Pakistanis from Lahore were among the pioneers in creating the world’s first computer virus, showcasing the capabilities of Pakistani youth.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stressed the need for better internet access and data privacy protections for the younger generation. He announced plans to visit educational institutions across the country, including Sindh, to gather student feedback on proposed digital rights legislation. “Tag me on social media and share your suggestions,” he urged the youth, committing to raising awareness on the issue.
Addressing climate change, he warned of severe consequences if its impact is not mitigated. “Pakistan risks devastating floods and infrastructure collapse if we fail to address climate change,” he stated. He criticized both bureaucrats and senior politicians for their lack of understanding of such crucial issues, focusing only on budgets and public sector development programs.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari lamented the absence of proper planning to combat climate change in the federal budget. He pointed out that Pakistan is among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change.
