Usman Dar is a notable Pakistani politician who played a crucial role in the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan. Specifically, he held the position of Special Adviser on Youth Affairs, a significant portfolio focusing on matters related to the youth population of Pakistan. His tenure in this influential role extended from December 3, 2018, to April 10, 2022.
During his time in office, Usman Dar not only advised the Prime Minister on youth-related policies and initiatives but also assumed the responsibilities of Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. This dual role underscores his commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of the younger generation in the country.
However, despite his contributions and achievements, Usman Dar resigned from his parliamentary position on April 10, 2022. This move marked the conclusion of his active involvement in the political landscape, at least in the specific capacity he held during his tenure as the Special Adviser on Youth Affairs.
Personal Background of Usman Dar
Usman Dar, born on August 28, 1974, in Sialkot, Pakistan, has roots in a culturally diverse background, belonging to a Punjabi-speaking Kashmiri family. Sialkot, his birthplace, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
Being a family man, Usman Dar is married and takes pride in being the father of two children. This aspect of his personal life underscores his commitment not only to his professional endeavors but also to his role within the family unit.
The blend of Punjabi and Kashmiri influences in his heritage likely contributes to a unique cultural identity, reflecting the diversity that characterizes the social fabric of Pakistan. Born into this cultural tapestry, Usman Dar carries with him the traditions, values, and heritage of his familial background, contributing to the broader mosaic of Pakistani society.
Educational Background of Usman Dar
Usman Dar obtained a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of the Punjab.
However, discrepancies arose regarding his academic credentials when, in his nomination papers for the 2013 general election, Dar asserted that he had earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Schiller International University, London in 1997.
It was later revealed in November 2017 that Schiller International University was identified as a degree mill, and the authenticity of Dar’s MBA degree was called into question. The Department for Education of the United Kingdom clarified that it does not recognize the university.
Notably, in his nomination papers for the 2018 general election, Usman Dar did not disclose his MBA degree and only referenced his undergraduate degree from the University of the Punjab.
Usman Dar's Political Journey: 2008-2018
In the 2008 Punjab provincial election, Usman Dar contested as an independent candidate for the Provincial Assembly of the Punjab from PP-122 (Sialkot-II) but faced defeat, securing only 54 votes and losing the seat to Chaudhry Muhammad Akhlaq.
In the 2013 Pakistani general election, Dar, representing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), ran for the National Assembly seat from NA-110 (Sialkot-I). Despite receiving 71,573 votes, he was unable to secure the seat, which went to Khawaja Muhammad Asif.
In the 2018 Pakistani general election, Dar, again representing PTI, contested for the National Assembly seat from NA-73 (Sialkot-II). Although he garnered 115,464 votes, he lost the seat to Khawaja Muhammad Asif.
Challenges and Controversies: 2018-2023
On October 10, 2018, Prime Minister Imran Khan appointed Usman Dar as the Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. However, this appointment faced opposition in the Provincial Assembly of the Punjab, with a resolution submitted against Dar citing concerns about his dubious degree and a perceived violation of merit.
Despite these challenges, on December 3, 2018, Prime Minister Imran Khan appointed Dar as his Special Assistant to the PM on Youth Affairs. However, his political journey took an unexpected turn when, after a four-month disappearance following the May 9 Protest, Usman Dar appeared in an interview on October 4, 2023, announcing his departure from Pakistan Tehreek Insaf and retirement from politics.