Students and academics from Indonesia and Pakistan gathered at Iqra University in Karachi for the Indonesia-Pakistan Academic Youth Forum 2026, aimed at strengthening youth diplomacy, academic cooperation and mutual understanding between the two countries.
The forum was organised by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi in collaboration with Iqra University and Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY).
Held at Iqra University’s Main Campus under the theme “Celebrating Independence, Building the Future: The Role of Indonesian and Pakistani Youth in Bridging Friendship and Global Cooperation,” the event brought young people and academics together to exchange views on issues shaping their future.
Focus on Youth and Innovation
Discussions covered youth leadership, education, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship. Participants also explored shared challenges and ways young people can contribute to the development and prosperity of their respective countries.
Pakistan Navy Defenders of the Motherland’s Waters
The programme included institutional presentations by UMY and Iqra University, cultural performances, interactive activities and group sessions.
These activities allowed Indonesian and Pakistani students to exchange experiences and gain a deeper understanding of each other’s societies and cultures.
Dr M. Zaki Rashidi, Director of Iqra University Main Campus, highlighted the importance of cross-border youth collaboration in building a more connected and prosperous future for both countries.
Youth Diplomacy for Global Challenges
Representing the Indonesian Consulate General in Karachi, Dian Ratri Astuti, Consul for Information and Socio-Cultural Affairs, emphasised the growing importance of academic and youth diplomacy.
She said young people would play an increasingly important role in addressing global challenges, including rapid technological change, artificial intelligence, climate change and economic uncertainty.
Astuti stressed that countries could not address such complex challenges in isolation, making dialogue, innovation and cross-border cooperation among young people increasingly important.
Independence as a Shared Responsibility
The forum took place shortly after Pakistan and Indonesia celebrated their respective Independence Days on August 14 and August 17.
The occasion provided participants with an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of independence in the modern world.
Speakers encouraged young people to view independence not only as a national achievement but also as a responsibility to contribute to society, embrace innovation and build partnerships across borders.
Universities Explore New Areas of Cooperation
The forum also opened opportunities for closer institutional cooperation between UMY and Iqra University.
Potential areas include student and faculty exchanges, joint seminars, collaborative research, guest lectures and cultural programmes.
The organisers said bringing together students, academics and educational institutions could help translate the longstanding friendship between Indonesia and Pakistan into practical cooperation and stronger people-to-people connections.
The Consulate General of Indonesia in Karachi reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that empower young people, strengthen educational partnerships and deepen mutual understanding between Indonesia and Pakistan.
