Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said on Wednesday that the provincial government aims to equip more than 500,000 young people with market-driven skills, describing skilled youth as Pakistan’s most valuable asset and a key driver of economic growth.
Addressing a ceremony for trainees who completed courses under the ‘Parwaaz Card’ programme, she congratulated participants on their achievements and commended their dedication. She also acknowledged the role of parents, noting that assuming family responsibilities at a young age was a significant challenge.
The chief minister said a substantial portion of Pakistan’s labour force remained unskilled, limiting access to higher incomes and career advancement. She added that the government was expanding technical and vocational training programmes across multiple sectors to improve employment prospects.
According to Maryam Nawaz, more than half of Pakistani workers seeking employment abroad are unskilled, making it difficult for them to secure competitive salaries and career progression. She stressed that modern technical expertise has become essential for success in the international labour market.
She said the provincial government was offering training programmes aligned with both domestic and overseas demand in fields including construction, hospitality, transport, logistics, engineering, energy and healthcare.
She added that specialised courses in emerging sectors such as nursing, culinary arts, hydrocarbons and renewable energy had also been introduced to ensure young people remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Maryam Nawaz said vocational and technical education could provide meaningful career opportunities for those unable to pursue university degrees. She added that training initiatives were being tailored to individual abilities and labour market requirements to improve employability at home and abroad.
The chief minister said overseas employment opportunities offered not only higher earnings but also exposure to modern professional practices, work ethics and advanced systems. She encouraged trainees to learn from developed societies and apply those lessons to their own professional growth.
She further stated that partnerships with employers and companies in countries including Saudi Arabia and Malaysia were being developed to create safe and dignified overseas employment pathways for trained workers.
Maryam Nawaz said financial hurdles such as visa fees, medical examinations, travel expenses and related costs were being addressed through easier access to loan facilities, enabling more young people to pursue opportunities abroad.
She noted that 105 young people had already secured employment in various sectors through government-supported initiatives, while new opportunities were also being created for women, including in the construction industry.
The chief minister said skilled workers generally receive better wages and enjoy greater professional recognition overseas. She also praised Adnan Chatha and his team for their contribution to the programme’s success, describing skills development as one of the government’s foremost priorities.
She added that young people have a responsibility not only to support their families but also to contribute positively to society through their talent, dedication and hard work, emphasizing that skill development is vital for both youth empowerment and long-term economic stability.