Key Takeaways
- Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reaffirmed her government’s commitment to skill development.
- The province will establish its first ‘Skills City’ and offer vocational training in various fields.
- Over 108,000 people have received loans under the Asaan Karobar scheme.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reaffirmed her government’s commitment to equipping the province's youth with modern technology and professional skills. Speaking on World Youth Skills Day, she emphasized that young people are the nation's greatest asset and architects of its future.
Under the theme 'Skills for a shared future,' the day was observed by highlighting the urgent need for innovative youth skills programs. The CM stated, ‘Only a technologically skilled and professionally trained youth could play a pivotal role in the country’s progress and prosperity.’
The Punjab government has allocated substantial funds to promote skill development among the youth. In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day, underscoring the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.
As part of her vision, Chief Minister Nawaz has already accorded in-principle approval to a plan aimed at establishing Punjab’s first ‘Skills City.’ The project will feature technical educational institutes aligned with industry requirements, while existing skills education institutions will be upgraded into Centres of Excellence. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the employability and entrepreneurial spirit among young people.
The CM highlighted various programs initiated by her government to support skill development. Over 108,000 people have received loans under the Asaan Karobar scheme, with interest-free loans ranging from Rs1 million to Rs3 million being provided to young entrepreneurs. Additionally, 2,000 young people are receiving a monthly stipend of Rs60,000 through the Agriculture Internship Programme.
Vocational training institutes across Punjab offer internationally aligned courses in technology, construction, masonry, welding, tile fixing, and heavy vehicle maintenance. The CM also mentioned that 10,000 young people from across the province have been facilitated with employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, aligning with international market requirements.
Highlighting women’s empowerment through skills development, the Sehar Programme is providing training to 5,365 women in beautification, hospitality, and airline management. Participants are also being provided free laptops and a monthly stipend of Rs7,500. The CM stated that for the first time in Punjab, e-commerce, digital marketing, and advanced IT courses have been incorporated into the curriculum.
In her message on World Youth Skills Day, Chief Minister Nawaz emphasized that all available resources will be utilized to provide youth with market-driven technical education, enabling them to become the true strength of Punjab. She concluded by stating, ‘Our vision is for young people in Punjab to be highly skilled and proficient in their fields.’
Only a technologically skilled and professionally trained youth could play a pivotal role in the country’s progress and prosperity.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister
Our vision is for young people in Punjab to be highly skilled and proficient in their fields.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister
