Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced that the provincial government has provided vocational training to over 200,000 young people. She emphasized that equipping youth with skills and creating employment opportunities is a top priority of her administration.
Speaking at a passing-out ceremony for students of the Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Department, CM Maryam said Pakistan’s youth population is large and must be prepared to compete both locally and globally. She added that vocational training programs are crucial for building a skilled and productive workforce.
The chief minister highlighted that multiple skill development initiatives have been launched, including special programs for women. She revealed that many trained youth are now ready to enter the job market or start their own businesses. Under the government’s Parwaz Card program, eligible youth can receive up to Rs300,000 as an interest-free loan to launch enterprises or secure better employment. Many have already begun earning through e-commerce ventures.
CM Maryam also pointed to the Garments City in Sheikhupura, where 1,000 young people have received training so far. She noted that international demand is growing, with Saudi Arabia requesting 45,000 skilled Pakistani workers. Trained youth are being sent abroad to meet labor needs and enhance Pakistan’s reputation for skilled workers.
The chief minister stressed that vocational training and fair wages help ensure dignity for workers. She said unskilled labor often faces low wages and limited opportunities. Punjab’s government is committed to improving services, including mobile service labs, doorstep healthcare, free water initiatives, and mobile police stations for women.
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Maryam Nawaz also highlighted social inclusion, noting support for the transgender community. She pledged to uplift all marginalized groups through skills development and empowerment, underlining that vocational training is key to building a strong and respected workforce in Pakistan.
