Empowering Youth

Designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, the program empowers youth to engage meaningfully in human rights discourse and practice. Its core purpose is to cultivate a new generation of leaders who understand the principles of equality, justice, diversity, and inclusive citizenship. Through this initiative, AWAM nurtures critical thinkers and advocates who are prepared to address social injustices and promote inclusive governance.

The internship curriculum is comprehensive and multidimensional. It introduces participants to fundamental human rights concepts from a sociological perspective and deepens their understanding of democracy, justice, and freedom. It explores models of equality, fair treatment, and diversity, and emphasizes the connection between rights and responsibilities. A special focus is placed on recognizing patterns of violence and intolerance within society. Interns are also educated about national and international legal frameworks related to human rights, compliance mechanisms, and the function of national human rights institutions. The program further explores the political representation of marginalized communities and the role of various actors in strengthening rights-based systems.

To ensure that interns receive practical experience, the program incorporates field engagement, interactive lectures, exposure visits, fact-finding missions, and individual assignments. Participants conducted various audits, supported different campaigns, and conducted research on the basis of their own interests.They also visited institutions such as the National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR) and interacted with government officials, journalists, academics, and civil society leaders. These activities helped interns connect theoretical concepts with on-ground realities while developing a deeper appreciation for the challenges and opportunities in the human rights sector.

The internship included a diverse range of field experiences and sessions. Interns engaged in case studies, visited social protection institutes, and participated in reports and visits to organizations like Sathi Foundation and Pakistan Bible Correspondence School (PBCS) to comprehend the existing structure for the safeguard of marginalized communities. Orientation sessions, training workshops, and exposure visits to educational institutions and human rights offices provided rich learning opportunities. Participants also attended thought-provoking sessions led by experts such as Dr. Rizwan Ullah and Dr. Huma on the separation of East Pakistan, Dr. Mussadeq Hussain on Marxism, Jahangir Ashraf on communication, Yusuf Adnan on the local government system, and sessions exploring feminism, gender, and inequality.