Maryam Nawaz calls skilled youth Pakistan’s future
Addressing trainees who completed training under the “Parwaaz Card” programme, she congratulated them on their achievements and praised their dedication. She also acknowledged the role of parents, saying that taking responsibility for a family at a young age is a significant challenge.
Maryam Nawaz encouraged young people to use their skills not only for personal success but also for the betterment of society. She said overseas employment opportunities offer higher incomes, valuable experience, and exposure to modern professional practices. She explained that working in developed countries helps young people learn advanced systems, work ethics, and professional standards. She urged trainees to observe successful societies and understand the factors behind their progress.
The chief minister said a large portion of Pakistan’s workforce remains unskilled, limiting employment opportunities and earning potential. To address this challenge, the Punjab government is providing technical and vocational training in multiple sectors and aims to train more than 500,000 young people.
She noted that not every student pursues a university degree, but vocational and technical education can still lead to rewarding careers. According to her, training programmes are being designed according to individual abilities and market demands to help young people secure jobs in Pakistan and abroad.
Maryam Nawaz said skilled workers receive better salaries and greater respect in international markets. She praised Adnan Chatha and his team for their efforts in making the programme successful and described skill development as one of her government’s top priorities.
She revealed that more than 50 percent of Pakistani workers going abroad are unskilled, making it difficult for them to secure better-paying jobs and advance their careers. She stressed that modern skills have become essential for competing in the global job market.
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The chief minister said the government is offering training in sectors such as construction, hospitality, transport, logistics, engineering, energy, and healthcare. She added that emerging fields, including nursing, culinary arts, hydrocarbons, and renewable energy, have also been incorporated into training programmes.
Maryam Nawaz said partnerships are being developed with companies in countries such as Saudi Arabia and Malaysia to create more overseas employment opportunities for trained youth. She added that these initiatives will help young people begin safe, respectable, and sustainable careers.
She further said the government is addressing financial barriers such as visa fees, medical expenses, and travel costs through easier loan facilities, enabling deserving youth to take advantage of international job opportunities.
The chief minister revealed that 105 young people have already secured jobs in different sectors through these efforts. She also highlighted growing opportunities for women, including roles in the construction sector, saying that better employment prospects can improve living standards and provide stronger support for families.