The United Kingdom, in collaboration with institutions from the Middle East, has announced plans to establish 280 skills centers across Pakistan. This initiative aims to equip millions of Pakistanis with industry-relevant skills, ultimately boosting their employment opportunities both locally and globally.
Key Focus: Enhancing Technical and Vocational Training
Education and Training (TVET).
Delegation Members
The UK delegation includes:
- Wendy Thomson, Vice-Chancellor, University of London
- Professor Peter Edward, Vice-Chancellor, University of Greenwich
- Professor Richard Grose, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Queen Mary University
- Tony Degazon, Regional Director of City and Guilds
- Dr. Aamir and Executive Director of GEMS Middle East
Pakistani Representatives
To engage in discussions, representatives from Pakistan included:
- Federal Secretary of Education, Mohiyuddin Wani
- Executive Director of NAVTTC
Objectives and Priorities
Training and Employment Goals
The primary goal of this initiative is to provide Pakistani citizens with high-quality vocational training, meeting the needs of modern industries. As part of the project:
- 280 skills centers will be established.
- These centers will provide certifications jointly issued by Pakistani, UK, and Gulf institutions.
- 80,000 job placements are expected in the first phase, specifically in Gulf countries such as the UAE, especially in sectors like hospitality, construction, and veterinary nursing.
Government’s Commitment
This project aligns with the priorities of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Federal Minister of Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and Prime Minister’s Advisor on Youth Affairs, Rana Mashhood. They emphasize the need for training that not only serves Pakistan but also prepares the workforce for international markets.
Job Placement and Certification
Skills Centers and Job Opportunities
The skills centers are designed to provide specialized training that will enhance employability. Upon successful completion, graduates will receive certifications recognized by:
- Pakistani universities
- UK institutions
- Middle Eastern educational organizations
This certification will open doors to jobs worldwide, including various Gulf countries such as Dubai, where there is a strong demand for skilled labor in fields like:
- Security services
- Hospitality
- Construction
- Veterinary nursing
- Dubai Police positions
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
The delegation is also set to visit Karachi to meet Federal Education Minister Maqbool Siddiqui. This meeting will focus on building strategic partnerships to further strengthen Pakistan’s vocational training framework. This collaboration will ensure Pakistani youth are equipped with skills that meet both local and global industry demands.
Comments from the UK Delegation
One representative from the UK delegation expressed their commitment, stating, “We are dedicated to promoting educational cooperation that empowers the Pakistani youth. By aligning our training programs with industry needs, we can create sustainable career pathways for Pakistanis both within the country and abroad.”
Conclusion
The partnership between the UK, Gulf nations, and Pakistan represents a promising step toward enhancing the vocational skills of Pakistani youth. With the establishment of these skills centers, Pakistan is poised to meet global workforce demands, strengthening its presence in international markets.
References
- Statements from UK and Pakistani officials
- Information from NAVTTC and Federal Ministry of Education