Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given the green light to the National Youth Employment Plan, which aims to provide market-driven training programs to empower Pakistan's youth. The decision was made during a review meeting on Thursday, where the Prime Minister stressed the importance of aligning training programs with market and industry demands.
The action plan, outlined during the meeting, aims to offer training and employment opportunities through various institutions over the next four years. PM Sharif has committed to personally chairing monthly review meetings to closely monitor the plan's implementation.
Emphasizing the significance of the youth, the Prime Minister stated, “The talented youth of Pakistan are the most valuable asset of the country.” He reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering young people by providing vocational training and essential skills.
Under the National Youth Employment Plan, it is projected that between 2.4 million and 6 million young individuals will receive training annually over the next four years, creating numerous employment opportunities. A Digital Youth Hub is set to launch this month, providing a platform for youth development and job opportunities.
The government plans to collaborate closely with local industries to facilitate training and employment across various sectors.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, described the National Youth Employment Plan as a “comprehensive and revolutionary initiative” that will support young people at every stage, from employment training. He noted that the plan encompasses a wide range of employment opportunities, both domestically and internationally, allowing young Pakistanis to showcase their skills on a global stage.
Rana Mashhood emphasized that the initiative will not only align training with modern demands but also provide the best employment opportunities. The plan will include vocational training, internships, business support, and specialized training programs in technology and digital skills, equipping youth with the necessary competencies for the modern workforce.
“This initiative is a significant step towards economic growth and empowering young people in Pakistan,” he stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for talented youth to thrive and demonstrate their skills.
Additionally, PM Sharif highlighted the government’s efforts to promote the export of manpower by offering international-quality training to Pakistani youth. He directed officials to maintain strong connections with local industries and to consider the demand for skilled labor from international organizations.