The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation brought together university students from across its member states in Istanbul for the inaugural Youth Bridges Programme, seeking to equip a new generation with the skills and networks needed to navigate an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
The program, held at the D-8 Secretariat headquarters to mark International Youth Day, gathered students from D-8 countries currently studying in Türkiye alongside experts from international organizations, business representatives, entrepreneurs and innovation specialists.
Discussions focused on artificial intelligence, future skills, entrepreneurship, innovation and regional cooperation, with organizers aiming to strengthen connections among young people across D-8 member states.
Addressing participants, D-8 Secretary-General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood outlined the organization's founding vision and its growing emphasis on youth participation and empowerment.
“The future must be built with the youth,” Mahmood said, calling for greater investment in young people's skills, creativity, digital capabilities and entrepreneurial potential.
