World Youth Skills Day, observed annually on July 15, is a global initiative designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 to emphasize the importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and fulfilling work. This year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” emphasizes the critical role of youth in fostering peace and sustainable development. In Pakistan, where a significant portion of the population is young, this day holds particular relevance and urgency.
Importance of Youth Skills in Pakistan
Pakistan ranks fifth among 195 countries in terms of its youthful population, with approximately 64% of its citizens under the age of 30. Young people aged 15 to 29 constitute 36% of the population, representing a vast reservoir of potential that can drive the nation’s progress. However, this potential remains largely untapped due to inadequate financial resources, lack of career counseling, and insufficient access to quality education. The current educational framework often fails to impart practical, market-driven skills, leading to high unemployment rates and perpetuating poverty.
Turning Youth Bulge into a Boon
The youth bulge in Pakistan, if managed effectively, can transform into a tremendous asset rather than a liability. By equipping young people with the latest technological skills and vocational training, the standard of living can be significantly improved, and the country’s economic development can be accelerated. The government has recognized this potential and is taking substantial steps to address these challenges and harness the power of its youth.
Skills for Hospitality and Tourism: A Key Sector
In addition to information technology and vocational training, the hospitality and tourism sector represents a crucial area for skill development in Pakistan. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical sites, Pakistan has immense potential as a tourist destination. Developing skills in hospitality and tourism can open up numerous employment opportunities for young people, boost the economy, and enhance the country’s global image. Skills in this sector include hotel management, culinary arts, tour guiding, and customer service, all of which are essential for providing exceptional experiences to tourists and fostering sustainable tourism development.
COTHM: Leading the Way in Skills Education
The College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM) is already at the forefront of skills education in Pakistan, producing a skilled workforce that meets international standards. COTHM offers a range of programs in hospitality, culinary arts, travel and tourism, and event management. By providing quality education and practical training, COTHM plays a vital role in preparing young people for successful careers in the hospitality and tourism industry, contributing to the overall economic growth and development of Pakistan.
Government Initiatives to Empower Youth
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing modern education, equal development opportunities, and professional training to the youth. On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day, the Prime Minister highlighted several key initiatives:
Professional Training: The government is sending 300,000 youth for professional training, including 1,000 for modern agriculture training in China. This initiative prioritizes women and youth from backward areas, ensuring inclusive development.
Information Technology Training: National-level training programs in information technology are underway, with reforms being implemented in institutions under the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTCC). These efforts aim to provide market-based skills and professional training to thousands of young people.
Punjab’s Commitment to Youth Development
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also shared her vision for youth empowerment in her message on World Youth Skills Day. She emphasized the critical role of skilled youth in ensuring a sustainable future and highlighted several initiatives by the Punjab government:
Vocational Training: The Punjab government is dedicated to providing vocational training opportunities to its youth. Under the Chief Minister’s Skills Development Initiative, the number of students enrolled in Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVTA) courses will be gradually increased to 40,000.
Information Technology: Recognizing the importance of information and communication technology (ICT) in the global job market, the Punjab government is introducing Middle Tech, Matric Tech, and Intermediate Tech programs for students interested in IT. This initiative aims to ensure that every youth in Punjab acquires the necessary skills for economic empowerment.
Message from NAVTTC Executive Director Aamir Jan
As we commemorate World Youth Skills Day, it is imperative to acknowledge the vital role that skill development plays in shaping the future of our youth. At the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), we are steadfast in our commitment to equipping young individuals with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy.
The theme for this year’s World Youth Skills Day, “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future,” resonates deeply with our mission at NAVTTC. By providing cutting-edge vocational training and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, we aim to empower the youth of Pakistan to become catalysts for positive change and sustainable development.
Our initiatives are designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that our young workforce is not only competitive but also innovative and resilient. Through strategic partnerships, industry collaborations, and a focus on quality training, we are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.
On this significant day, I urge all stakeholders to join hands with NAVTTC in our endeavor to build a skilled and empowered youth. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our young generation and drive Pakistan towards a path of sustainable growth and success.
A Path Forward
World Youth Skills Day serves as a reminder of the immense potential of Pakistan’s youth. By investing in their skills and providing them with the necessary tools and training, the government aims to turn this potential into a driving force for national progress. The initiatives outlined by both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reflect a strong commitment to youth empowerment and a vision for a prosperous and sustainable future for Pakistan.
