OUR CORRESPONDENT
PESHAWAR: The European Union (EU) has started a groundbreaking program aimed at equipping the youth of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) with vital skills demanded by the job market. This initiative, launched at the Vocational Training Centre of Excellence in Hayatabad, signifies a pivotal moment in the Team Europe Initiative’s efforts to foster green job creation and sustainable development in KP.
The program, supported by the EU and the Government of Germany, seeks to revolutionize vocational training in KP by enhancing selected VET schools across the province. These schools will receive upgraded facilities, better-trained staff, and tailored curricula to meet the needs of the labor market, thus driving economic prosperity and sustainable growth.
Focused on key sectors such as agribusiness, water, and energy, the EU’s support aims to elevate skills and empower youth to seize opportunities in emerging industries. This initiative not only aligns with the broader Team Europe Initiative but also contributes to the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative by investing in the skills of young people in Pakistan.
Abdul Karim Thorder, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of KP, emphasized the government’s commitment to revitalizing the economy, highlighting the pivotal role of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in this mission.
Dr. Riina Kiionka, EU Ambassador to Pakistan, stressed the transformative impact of reforming the TVET sector on youth empowerment, particularly noting its significance in a province where youth make up a significant portion of the population.
Dr. Sebastian Paust, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, underscored the collaborative efforts of Team Europe partners in enhancing the TVET sector, thereby enhancing employment prospects for KP’s youth.
About the TVET Sector Support Programme:
The TVET SSP is a five-year initiative designed to bolster Pakistan’s TVET sector by providing training opportunities in high-demand professions. With a focus on green and digital areas, the programme aims to advance human capital development and create decent jobs, building upon previous successes in the sector. Jointly implemented by GIZ and the British Council, the programme aims to empower skilled workers, particularly women, in digital and high-tech sectors.
