Lahore: The Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan's six-week Summer Internship Programme 2026 concluded with more than 30,000 students participating across the country, including 5,500 students who completed the programme in Lahore. An awards ceremony was held at a local hotel in Lahore to mark the conclusion of the programme, where certificates were distributed among 1,250 high-achieving interns.Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan Secretary General Syed Waqas Jafri, Pakistan International Business Forum President Dr Mushtaq Mangat, Vice President Alkhidmat Saima Shabbir, International Muslim Women Union Chairperson Dr. Sameeha Raheel Qazi, former Punjab University vice chancellor and Director Alkhidmat Volunteer Management Department Dr. Khalid Mahmood, university faculty members, trainers, students and other guests attended the ceremony.During the six-week programme, students received training in leadership, communication, teamwork, digital skills, artificial intelligence, first aid, disaster management, planning, f undraising and community engagement. They also participated in practical activities, group work and projects designed to provide them with hands-on experience and opportunities to demonstrate their skills.Speaking at the ceremony, Syed Waqas Jafri said Pakistan's youth were a valuable national asset and needed appropriate guidance and practical opportunities to develop their potential.He said success in today's world was not limited to academic qualifications or expertise in a particular field, but also required leadership, communication, teamwork, digital skills and problem-solving abilities, along with an understanding of social responsibility and service to humanity. He said the internship programme was aimed at helping young people understand the demands of practical life and preparing them for future leadership roles.Syed Waqas Jafri said the abilities of young people should not remain confined to their personal careers, but should also be utilised for the betterment of society and the development of the country. He added that Alkhidmat would continue to strengthen coordination among educational institutions, faculty members, trainers and young people for this purpose.Saima Shabbir stressed the importance of character-building among young people and engaging them in practical social service. She said volunteer activities helped develop a sense of responsibility, leadership skills and awareness of social issues among youth.Dr. Khalid Mahmood said practical training programmes for university students helped bridge the gap between academic life and the professional world. He appreciated Alkhidmat's efforts to provide young people with practical training and exposure.During the ceremony, selected interns shared their experiences and appreciated the foundation for providing them with opportunities for practical learning and skill development.Representatives of university Directorates of Student Affairs, heads of departments, internship trainers and the programme management team were also recognised for their contributions and presented with awards.