The youth of a nation plays a pivotal role in its progress, serving as the backbone of economic and social development...
EDUCATION WISE
The youth of a nation plays a pivotal role in its progress, serving as the backbone of economic and social development. According to the UNDP Human Development Report (NIHDR) 2018, enhancing the earning potential of young people through quality education and training can significantly reduce unemployment and poverty. In Pakistan, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions act as a cornerstone for equipping the youth with skills essential for joining the labour force. There are over 3000 TVET institutions across the country, and these facilities have the potential to make a substantial impact. However, they currently accommodate only a limited number of trainees annually, due to the limited scope of the existing infrastructure.
The job market in Pakistan remains precarious, with an urgent need for skill development to meet current and emerging demands. While progress in the TVET sector is evident, it has been insufficient to bridge the growing skills gap. Both domestic and international markets are increasingly demanding skilled workers, particularly in sectors like construction, real estate, and large-scale initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Although TVET centers offer courses in fields like construction, project management, HVACR, AutoCAD, and welding, they often fall short in producing employable graduates. A primary reason for this is the lack of practical training and outdated curricula, leaving many graduates ill-equipped to secure meaningful employment. This skills mismatch highlights the pressing need for systemic reforms in the TVET sector.
Key challenges include regional disparities in training opportunities, a lack of coordination with industry, and the limited capacity of existing training institutes. Addressing these issues requires aligning TVET programmes with market needs and technological advancements. Incentivizing industries to hire TVET graduates can also improve employment outcomes and create stronger linkages between training institutes and the job market.
Gender inequality further compounds the problem, as women face significant barriers to accessing and completing technical education. Promoting female participation in TVET programmes can unlock a vast, underutilized talent pool, significantly contributing to national economic growth. Additionally, introducing advanced degrees in technical disciplines, rather than restricting students to basic diplomas, can enhance career prospects, reduce dropout rates, and encourage lifelong learning.
To maximize the potential of the youth, Pakistan must prioritize expanding and modernizing TVET programmes. Estab-lishing more training centers, developing market-relevant courses, and fostering industry-academia partnerships are critical steps. Moreover, initiatives to encourage entrepreneurship among youth can further diversify economic opportunities.
By addressing these challenges, Pakistan can empower its youth to drive economic progress, reduce unemployment, and alleviate poverty. A skilled and engaged workforce can transform the nation’s socio-economic landscape, ensuring a future marked by prosperity, stability, and opportunity for all.
