In a significant move to address unemployment and boost foreign remittances, the Punjab government's Bureau of Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (B-TEVTA) has unveiled a major initiative aimed at facilitating jobs for skilled Pakistani youth in international markets. The program sets an ambitious target of preparing and placing 100,000 young individuals in jobs abroad.
A Strategic Push for Overseas Employment
The announcement was made by Ali Salman Siddique, Chairman of B-TEVTA, during a high-level meeting held to review the authority's performance and future plans. Siddique emphasized that this initiative is a core component of the government's strategy to not only provide employment but also to enhance the flow of remittances into the country by exporting a trained and certified workforce.
The meeting, which included key officials such as Director General Mohammad Ali and all directors of B-TEVTA, focused on operational plans to achieve this formidable goal. The chairman directed the officials to immediately begin practical work on this project, underscoring its importance for the economic future of Punjab's youth.
Building a Pipeline of Internationally-Competent Workers
The plan involves a comprehensive approach where B-TEVTA will act as a central facilitator. The authority will leverage its vast network of technical and vocational institutions across Punjab to identify, train, and certify candidates in trades that are in high demand globally. This process ensures that the youth are not just sent abroad, but are properly equipped with the skills and certifications that meet international standards, making them competitive and valuable employees.
Ali Salman Siddique stated that sending skilled manpower abroad is a national duty that will strengthen the country's economy. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the broader vision of transforming Pakistan's workforce into a productive asset recognized worldwide. The focus will be on sectors with proven overseas demand, which may include construction, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and hospitality.
Overhauling Systems for Efficiency and Transparency
During the review meeting, Chairman Siddique also issued strict instructions for a complete overhaul of B-TEVTA's internal systems. He mandated the implementation of a modern, transparent monitoring system to track the progress and outcomes of all projects and initiatives in real-time. This move is designed to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure that resources are utilized effectively to meet the set targets.
Furthermore, he called for the immediate resolution of all pending departmental issues and emphasized the importance of close coordination with other government departments. The goal is to create a seamless ecosystem where training aligns with market needs, both domestic and international, and where bureaucratic hurdles are minimized for the youth seeking opportunities.
The Broader Impact on Economy and Society
The success of this initiative promises a multi-faceted impact. Primarily, it will provide direct employment to 100,000 individuals, lifting thousands of families out of economic uncertainty. The subsequent flow of remittances will contribute to the national foreign exchange reserves, providing stability to the Pakistani rupee and funding for development projects.
On a societal level, the program is expected to reduce the reliance on irregular and unsafe migration channels by providing a legal, structured, and government-backed pathway for overseas employment. It also incentivizes skill development among the youth, encouraging them to pursue vocational training as a viable and lucrative career path.
The B-TEVTA chairman's directive marks a proactive step by the Punjab government. The target of 100,000 international job placements is one of the most substantial commitments of its kind. If executed with the planned transparency and efficiency, this initiative could serve as a model for other provinces, significantly contributing to national economic growth and individual prosperity.
