Young Development Fellows Programme in Pakistan – Complete Guide 2026
Pakistan’s future depends on skilled, motivated, and policy-driven youth. To nurture the next generation of national leaders, the Government of Pakistan has introduced the Young Development Fellows (YDF) Programme under the URAAN Pakistan initiative. This prestigious fellowship offers young professionals a rare opportunity to work at the heart of national policy-making.
In this blog, you will find complete details about the Young Development Fellows Programme, including eligibility, fields, benefits, stipend, and how to apply.
What is the Young Development Fellows (YDF) Programme?
The Young Development Fellows Programme is a one-year paid fellowship launched by the Planning Commission of Pakistan, Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives. The programme is designed to provide hands-on exposure to public policy, development planning, innovation, and reform processes.
Selected fellows work closely with senior policymakers, experts, and government officials to contribute to Pakistan’s long-term economic and social development.
Objectives of the YDF Programme
The programme aims to:
- Develop impact-driven young professionals
- Strengthen policy research and implementation capacity
- Promote innovation and evidence-based decision making
- Prepare future leaders for public sector and development roles
- Support Pakistan’s journey towards sustainable growth
Fields & Disciplines Offered
Applicants from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds can apply. The fellowship welcomes candidates from the following areas:
- Development & Economics
- Finance & Accounting
- Information Technology (IT)
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Public Policy & Governance
- Project Management & Appraisal
- Performance Management & Evaluation
- Data Analytics
- GIS & Remote Sensing
- Energy
- Water Resources
- Infrastructure & Construction
- Manufacturing & Industrial Development
- Mining & Minerals
- Exports & Trade
- Urban Planning
- Education & Health
- Tourism & Hospitality
- Creative Industries
- Development & Digital Communication
- Productivity & Quality
- Blue Economy
This diversity allows fellows to apply their expertise to real-world national challenges.
Eligibility Criteria for Young Development Fellows
To apply for the YDF Programme, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Age limit: 21 to 30 years
Education:
Master’s degree OR
16-year professional qualification
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Degree must be from a recognized local or foreign university
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Minimum GPA: 3.2
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Strong analytical, communication, and research skills
Only candidates who meet all criteria will be considered.
Fellowship Duration & Stipend
- Duration: 1 year
- Monthly stipend: PKR 90,000
- Stipend is provided for the entire fellowship period
This makes the YDF Programme one of the highest-paid government fellowships for young professionals in Pakistan.
How to Apply for the YDF Programme
The application process is simple but requires attention to detail:
- Download the official application proforma from the Planning Commission’s career page
- Fill out the form carefully
- Updated CV
- Attested copies of degrees
- Relevant testimonials
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Send the complete hard copy through courier
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Ensure your application reaches within 15 days of advertisement publication
⚠️ Incomplete applications are rejected, so double-check all documents.
Selection Process
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Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
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Shortlisted applicants will be called for an interview
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No TA/DA will be provided for interviews
Final selection is based on merit, qualifications, and interview performance.
Why You Should Apply for Young Development Fellows Programme
This fellowship is ideal if you want to:
- Build a career in public policy or development sector
- Gain real-world government experience
- Work on national-level projects
- Network with top policymakers and experts
- Enhance your professional profile with a prestigious government fellowship
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