Written By: Abdul Basit Alvi
In today’s fast-paced world, acquiring practical skills is more important than ever. As young people transition from education to the workforce or entrepreneurship, the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations becomes crucial. Practical skills enable them to approach life’s challenges with confidence, competence, and creativity.
While formal education provides a solid foundation of theory, it often lacks the context needed to apply that knowledge practically. Practical skills bridge the gap, connecting classroom learning to real-world outcomes in the workplace or daily life. For instance, students may learn about marketing strategies, but understanding how to execute a marketing campaign and analyze its results is a practical skill that deepens their understanding. Gaining hands-on experience helps youth grasp the complexities of their field, adapting theoretical concepts to solve real-world problems. This results in better retention of knowledge and a greater mastery of subjects, which are critical for success in any career or entrepreneurial venture.
In a competitive job market, employers prioritize candidates who can translate ideas into action. Practical skills often set candidates apart during the hiring process. For example, a young person who has honed coding skills through personal projects or internships is likely to be more attractive to employers than someone with only theoretical knowledge. Practical skills also demonstrate initiative, problem-solving abilities, and resilience—qualities that employers value highly. These traits show that a young person can adapt to a dynamic work environment, keep up with new technologies, and contribute meaningfully to organizational goals.
Practical learning often involves tackling real-world problems that require creative solutions and adaptable thinking. Youths engaged in hands-on experiences—whether through internships, volunteer work, or personal projects—are continuously challenged to think critically and solve problems. These experiences help them refine their analytical skills, learn from mistakes, and improve their problem-solving strategies. Environments that emphasize practical skills foster resourcefulness and confidence, preparing youths for leadership roles. They learn to consider different perspectives, weigh options, and find innovative solutions to achieve their goals.
In addition to technical skills, practical experiences also nurture soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and time management. Whether working on a group project, interacting with clients, or navigating workplace dynamics, youth develop these essential skills through real-life scenarios. The more they engage with such experiences, the better they become at managing various personalities, resolving conflicts, and performing well under pressure. They also learn to manage their time, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines—skills vital for professional success.
As youth gain practical experience, they often discover they can accomplish more than they initially believed. This sense of achievement boosts their self-confidence and motivates them to embrace new challenges. Whether it’s building a website, managing a social media account, or organizing a community event, each success reinforces their belief in their abilities. Practical skills also encourage independence, as young people who can solve problems, manage projects, and take initiative are more likely to become self-reliant adults. This independence enables them to take control of their careers, follow their passions, and make well-informed decisions about their future. Additionally, many industries are placing greater importance on a hybrid skill set that blends technical expertise with soft skills like communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. By focusing on practical learning, young people not only develop relevant technical skills but also the interpersonal abilities necessary for thriving in future work environments. The journey of acquiring practical skills fosters a mindset of lifelong learning. As they gain experience and face new challenges, they come to understand that there is always more to learn and discover. This mindset promotes ongoing personal and professional development. Young people who prioritize practical learning recognize that education doesn’t end with school or formal training. They are more inclined to seek out new opportunities to enhance their skills, whether through workshops, internships, or online courses. This adaptability and enthusiasm for learning make them resilient, enabling them to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Moreover, acquiring practical skills opens doors for youths to engage in community service, activism, and social entrepreneurship. Through hands-on experiences, they can use their abilities to tackle societal challenges, support local businesses, and give back to their communities. Whether volunteering at a local non-profit, starting a youth-led initiative, or developing solutions to environmental issues, young individuals empowered with practical skills are more likely to take an active role in creating positive societal change. By acquiring these skills, they not only improve their own lives but also contribute to the greater good, showcasing a sense of social responsibility that will benefit future generations.
Public relations (PR) are vital in shaping the communication strategies and image of any organization, including the army. The Army Public Relations Department plays a key role in managing the army’s image, engaging with the public, and overseeing media relations. An internship in this department offers a unique and valuable opportunity for young professionals interested in PR, communication, and media relations. For those seeking hands-on experience in a dynamic and impactful field, internships within the Army Public Relations Department offer numerous advantages.
One of the key benefits of interning in the Army Public Relations Department is exposure to high-level strategic communication. The army must communicate effectively with the public and the media, which requires careful planning to ensure the dissemination of clear, accurate, and timely information. Interns gain practical experience in crafting communication strategies, writing press releases, preparing speeches, and handling public announcements. They also learn about managing media crises, addressing sensitive issues, and maintaining transparency while safeguarding the integrity of the armed forces. This experience in critical communication helps interns develop a strategic mindset, essential for any PR career.
Interns are also immersed in the world of media relations, an integral part of any PR role. They have the chance to interact with journalists, reporters, and media outlets, assisting with coordinating interviews, managing press conferences, and distributing press releases. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into how the army maintains positive media relationships and responds to inquiries. Interns also learn how media outlets cover military events and how the army reacts to media coverage. This practical experience in media relations is a valuable skill set that can be applied across industries, including corporate PR, entertainment, and government communication. The Army Public Relations Department is also responsible for managing the army’s reputation during crises or periods of public scrutiny. For interns, this offers a priceless learning opportunity in crisis communication. They gain experience in handling sensitive situations, drafting holding statements, responding to media inquirie. Understanding how to manage the army’s image during a crisis is a skill that translates well into other PR sectors, particularly for organizations or brands that might face public relations challenges. Crisis communication expertise is highly valued in the PR industry, and having this experience on your resume can greatly boost your employability. Interning in the Army Public Relations Department provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in military culture and operations. Interns gain a deeper understanding of the army’s role in society, its values, and its goals. This exposure helps interns recognize the army’s communication needs and learn how to effectively represent the organization to both the public and the media. Additionally, working in this setting offers a firsthand look at how military operations, events, and training exercises are communicated. Interns learn how to present military activities in a way that resonates with civilians, while maintaining accuracy and respecting the confidentiality of military operations.
Writing is a central component of any PR role, and the Army Public Relations Department offers interns ample opportunities to enhance their writing skills. Interns are involved in drafting press releases, speeches, social media content, and internal communications. By working on various types of communication, they refine their ability to convey information clearly, concisely, and persuasively. Interns also learn how to tailor their writing for different audiences, whether communicating with journalists, government officials, or the general public. This adaptability in writing is a vital skill for any PR professional.
Interning in the Army Public Relations Department also offers valuable networking opportunities with military personnel, communication experts, journalists, and government officials. The connections made during the internship can lead to future job opportunities, mentorship, and career advice. The network developed in this environment is especially valuable, as it spans both military and civilian sectors, providing a unique advantage for interns pursuing careers in communications, public relations, or government affairs. Additionally, interns learn how to build relationships with media representatives, stakeholders, and other professionals, an essential skill for success in PR. Networking with individuals from diverse backgrounds broadens interns’ perspectives and deepens their understanding of various PR sectors.
The Army Public Relations Department closely monitors public opinion, media coverage, and public sentiment. Interns learn how to track media coverage, analyze trends, and assess public reactions to military events or issues. Gaining insight into how public opinion shapes communication strategies is a valuable skill in PR. Interns may also assist in conducting surveys or focus groups to gather feedback on public perceptions of the army. This real-time data helps the PR team adjust their strategies to ensure the army’s messaging aligns with public concerns and expectations. Interns gain a comprehensive understanding of media monitoring tools and analysis, which are applicable to any PR role.
In today’s digital age, social media plays a crucial role in public relations. The Army Public Relations Department oversees the army’s presence on platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube. Interns gain hands-on experience in creating social media posts, responding to inquiries, and maintaining the army’s online presence. Through this experience, interns learn how to adapt messages for different social media platforms, engage with followers, and use analytics tools to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns. Social media management has become an essential skill in PR, and the practical experience gained during an army internship provides a significant advantage in future PR roles. Interning in the Army Public Relations Department offers a strong sense of purpose, as interns play a role in supporting national security and raising public awareness about the army’s mission and accomplishments. Interns assist in conveying important information about the army’s activities, humanitarian initiatives, and national defense strategies, all while maintaining the military’s values and image. The opportunity to contribute to something larger than oneself is one of the most fulfilling aspects of an internship in the Army PR department. Interns gain valuable insight into the army’s role in safeguarding the nation and conveying its actions to the public, cultivating a sense of national pride and responsibility. An internship in the Army Public Relations Department can also serve as a gateway to a full-time career in military communication or public relations. Many high-performing, dedicated, and skilled interns are offered permanent roles within the department. Furthermore, the experience gained in an army PR department is highly valued by employers in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies, PR firms, and corporations. Interns acquire a diverse skill set that spans strategic communication, media relations, crisis management, and writing, making them well-suited for various PR careers.
In recognition of the value of involving young talent in public relations efforts, several countries have introduced internships in their army public relations departments. These programs provide youth with crucial experience in both the military and communications sectors, while strengthening the military’s ability to engage with the public. The U.S. Army has long understood the importance of public relations in shaping public perception and fostering positive media relationships. Through its Army Public Affairs Office, the U.S. Army offers numerous internships and student programs aimed at college students and recent graduates. These internships allow participants to gain hands-on experience in areas such as media relations, social media management, internal communications, and crisis communication. Interns work alongside military officers and public affairs specialists, assisting with tasks such as preparing press releases, managing social media platforms, and conducting media outreach. The U.S. Army’s Public Affairs Internship Program is part of a broader effort to attract young professionals interested in communications and public relations careers.
Similarly, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) offers internship opportunities for young people interested in military public relations. Through its PR and media departments, the MOD provides students and graduates the chance to collaborate with both military personnel and civilian communications professionals, promoting and informing the public about Defence Services. Interns at the MOD gain experience in diverse PR activities, from writing press releases and articles to organizing media events and monitoring public sentiment. The program also exposes interns to internal communications within the armed forces, allowing them to observe how strategic messaging is crafted and delivered in a military context.
The German Bundeswehr also offers internships within its public relations departments, allowing students to learn how the military engages with the public and media. These internships focus on effectively communicating the German armed forces’ values, missions, and initiatives. Interns work alongside public affairs officers to support the military’s outreach efforts, including drafting press statements, organizing public events, and managing social media profiles. With the growing importance of digital communication, the Bundeswehr emphasizes the role of social media in military public relations, involving interns in creating online content and handling communications for public-facing campaigns. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) offers internships within its Public Affairs division, giving university students the chance to gain practical experience in military communication. These internships are usually part of a wider government initiative aimed at building connections between students and public sector organizations. ADF interns support media relations, public events, and social media communication strategies. The program is designed to help participants develop skills in crisis management, strategic communications, and brand management, while also gaining insight into the military’s role in public life. ADF public affairs interns often play an active role in major defense-related events, gaining firsthand experience of how military communication supports national security and public trust.
In the case of Pakistan, the nation takes pride in having one of the world’s most professional and respected militaries. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) is the media branch of Pakistan’s military, tasked with managing its public image and promoting strategic communication both domestically and internationally. In recent years, the ISPR Internship Program has become an outstanding initiative, providing young and ambitious individuals the opportunity to work directly with one of the country’s most influential institutions. This internship offers valuable practical experience and fosters key values such as discipline, national service, and patriotism. The ISPR has a track record of successful campaigns, including those aimed at promoting patriotism and raising awareness of crucial national security issues. The organization handles press releases, public speeches, video documentaries, social media strategies, and more. Through various programs, the ISPR plays a vital role in developing young talent, offering hands-on experience in public relations, media management, and national communication.
The ISPR Internship Program was designed as a platform to engage young individuals, particularly university students, with the military’s media operations. Recognizing the growing significance of communication in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, the ISPR welcomes promising interns. These internships provide exposure to real-world media challenges and offer participants a deeper understanding of how strategic communications function within the military. The primary goal of the program is to equip interns with practical skills while fostering a sense of national duty, responsibility, and pride. This initiative aligns with the ISPR’s broader mission to engage youth, improve their employability, and shape future leaders who possess both technical expertise and leadership capabilities.
A key feature of the ISPR Internship Program is its diversity and flexibility. Interns are not restricted to a single department; depending on their interests and skills, they can work in various divisions. Interns gain experience in areas such as media management including crafting press releases and understanding public messaging, managing and curating content for ISPR’s online platforms, including Facebook, X, and Instagram, Assisting in the organization of national events, press conferences, and military functions, Creating documentaries, advertisements, and video content for national campaigns and writing articles, blogs, newsletters, and other content reflecting the military’s voice. This variety ensures that interns receive a well-rounded understanding of ISPR’s operations, contributing to their professional growth. Throughout their internships, participants are mentored by seasoned professionals who guide them, offering valuable insights into military communication strategies. Interns are encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussions, and develop their ideas in a collaborative and supportive environment. Interns gain valuable hands-on experience by engaging with real-world challenges faced by the ISPR. Whether assisting in the preparation for major media events or helping to craft national messages during crises, the internship offers a deep understanding of the complex relationship between military operations, media strategies, and public perception. Interns also gain insight into the military’s response to various security situations, how the public is kept informed, and the role of media in shaping national security policy. This direct involvement in strategic media management provides invaluable experience for those aspiring to careers in public relations, journalism, or any field that requires effective communication. The ISPR Internship Program offers more than just technical skill development; it serves as an exercise in national service and patriotism. Interns are exposed to the values and ideals upheld by Pakistan’s armed forces, gaining a sense of responsibility toward the nation and a deeper understanding of the country’s security needs and challenges. This exposure fosters pride and encourages participants to contribute positively to Pakistan’s future, whether they pursue a career in the military or another field. The program acts as a significant career booster for many young individuals, with several past interns securing permanent positions within the ISPR or other government departments, while others move on to careers in media, PR agencies, and defense communication. The professional relationships and networks built during the internship are invaluable assets for future career opportunities.
The ISPR Internship Program is open to students from various disciplines, particularly those studying communication, media studies, public relations, journalism, and social sciences. However, it is designed to be inclusive, encouraging applicants from other fields as well. To apply, candidates must have completed a certain level of academic education (e.g., at least a Bachelor’s degree or be in their final year of undergraduate studies). Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as well as a basic understanding of social media platforms and content creation tools. A demonstrated commitment to the nation’s development and an understanding of the ISPR’s role in Pakistan’s security framework are also required.
The application process for the ISPR Internship Program is generally online. Interested candidates must submit their resumes along with a statement of purpose, explaining why they wish to intern with the ISPR and how their skills align with the program. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews and selection. Once selected, interns receive orientation and training to help them integrate into the ISPR’s operational environment.
The ISPR Internship Program has made a significant impact, not only on the interns themselves but on society at large. By investing in the youth, the program is preparing the next generation of leaders in media, communication, and public relations. Bringing young people closer to the defense sector fosters a deeper understanding of national security, bridging the gap between civilians and the military. Interns leave the program with a greater appreciation for the Pakistan Army’s work and its strategic communication efforts. They also acquire transferable skills in media relations, event coordination, content creation, and public diplomacy—skills highly valued in today’s globalized, media-driven world. Many former interns have gone on to lead major media campaigns or take on leadership roles in various sectors. Their stories underscore the transformative power of the internship and the lasting impact it has had on both their careers and personal growth.
The ISPR Internship Program is an influential tool for empowering Pakistan’s youth. It provides them with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving fields of media, communications, and public relations. By offering a platform for learning and development, the program helps nurture future leaders who are dedicated to serving Pakistan and contributing to its growth. Under the dynamic leadership of Army Chief General Asim Munir and DGISPR Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary, the Pak Army and ISPR are actively engaging youth and students, preparing them to become well-equipped and well-groomed leaders for Pakistan’s future.
