PESHAWAR: Parenting plays a critical role in shaping future generations and countering societal challenges, particularly violent extremism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stresses the provincial government`s spokesperson Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif.

He stated this while addressing the closing ceremony of a workshop titled `The Art of Parenting` organised by National Institute of Psychology, Aga Khan Foundation, National Commission on Status of Women and other partners here on Friday.

Barrister Saif said that parenting was both a societal and socialobligation, underscoring the need for a standard of parenting that met current challenges and equipped future generations to contribute meaningfully to society.

He drew a connection between parenting and countering violent extremism (CVE), noting that the two were deeply interlinked.

He argued that quality parenting could serve as a powerful tool to mitigate extremism by nurturing individuals who are socially conscious and morally grounded.

`The link between parenting and CVE is critical, especially in the context of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where societal dynamics are rapidly evolving,` he remarked.

Barrister Saif highlighted the importance of a systematic and evidence-based approach. `The scientific discourse is a guiding principle in modern parenting research,` he added.

He stressed that parenting must adapt to the changing socio-psychological, socioeconomic, and socio-political landscapes. He advocated for a scientific approach to understand the factors driving societal change and preparing the next generation to navigate these transformations. `Without a scientific understanding of these processes and their impacts, we cannot fully realise the benefits of parenting initiatives,` he noted.

He emphasised the need to prepare children for emerging global trends, such as the influence of social media and artificial intelligence. He urged parents to empower their children to harness these forces for societal good rather than destruction. `We must raise children who can use the power of AI and social media to reform and rebuild society,` he asserted.

Regarding the societal roots of extremism, he argued that individuals raised in environments lacking social cohesion or collective values were more susceptible to radicalisation. `Frustration arises when individuals feel isolated. Parenting that fosters a collective consciousness and moral strength can counter these tendencies,` he noted.