Experts Discuss Inter-generational Societal Transformations and Pakistan’s Resilience

The Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, organised a seminar titled “Inter-generational Societal Transformations and Pakistan’s Resilience” on 22 August 2024. The event focused on bridging the generational gap in Pakistan to strengthen the nation’s resilience.The seminar commenced with opening remarks by Dr Bilal Ghazanfar, Associate Senior Researcher at CASS, Lahore, who emphasised that technology has transformed the average generational gap into a generational break. Mian Imran Masood, former Education Minister of Punjab, delivered the keynote address, wherein he emphasised the necessity of bolstering intergenerational connectivity through educational and social initiatives. Mr Oves Anwar, Director, Research Society of International Law, highlighted the technological prowess and innovative mindset of younger generations and noted that they have the potential to reshape Pakistan’s future in a digitised world. Dr Yaqoob Ahmed Bangash, Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, Information Technology University, emphasised the need for enhancing communication between generations to leverage experience and wisdom.In his concluding remarks, Air Marshal Asim Suleiman (Retd), President, CASS Lahore, highlighted that the widening generational gap in Pakistan poses a significant threat to national cohesion and development. In his opinion, divergent worldviews, exacerbated by the amplifying effects of social media, have led to a polarisation of societal discourse in Pakistan. He warned that if left unchecked, this divide could undermine Pakistan’s ability to build a unified society that meets the challenges of the 21st century.The question-and-answer session generated insightful discussions. The seminar highlighted the complexity of the inter-generational gap and identified steps that can be taken to build a more equitable, and prosperous Pakistan for generations to come.