Synapse Pakistan Neuroscience Institute has confirmed the return of Unplugged 2025, Pakistan’s only youth-led concert dedicated to mental health awareness. Scheduled for Saturday, November 1, 2025, the event will take place at the Aga Khan University (AKU) in Karachi.

Organised by Synapse Pakistan in collaboration with the Aga Khan University – Brain & Mind Institute (AKU-BMI), the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), and the Indus Valley School of Art & Architecture (IVS), the concert aims to empower youth to speak openly about mental health through music, art, and meaningful dialogue.

Pakistan’s population is among the youngest globally, with nearly 64 percent under the age of 30. Experts estimate that around 30 million young Pakistanis silently face mental health challenges. Although Pakistan enacted a National Mental Health Policy and Ordinance in 2001, progress has been minimal. Alarmingly, only 0.4 percent of the national health budget is allocated to mental health, and fewer than ten child and adolescent psychiatrists serve the entire country.

Dr Ayesha Mian, Founder and CEO of Synapse Pakistan, emphasized, “Over 60 percent of our population is under 30, and many are struggling with mental distress. This cannot be ignored. Unplugged creates a safe space for youth to express themselves and demand better mental health care.”

Dr Zul Merali, Founding Director of AKU-BMI, described Unplugged as a creative platform to promote awareness and real-life storytelling. “These conversations can spark real change for youth wellbeing,” he said.

Now in its third year, Unplugged has evolved into a nationwide movement. Since its first sold-out concert in 2023, it has reached more than 100,000 people through live and digital events. With a fusion of music, creativity, and hope, Unplugged 2025 seeks to inspire young Pakistanis to speak up and support one another on the path to better mental health.

We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to opinion@minutemirror.com.pk and minutemirrormail@gmail.com