Pakistan Reaffirms Skills Empowerment at TVET Dialogue -

STAFF REPORTER ISLAMABAD: Day One of the Two-Day International Dialogue on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the Shifting Socio-Economic Paradigm commenced in Islamabad. Spearheaded by Chairperson NAVTTC, Ms. Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, whose vision made the dialogue possible, the event was organized by NAVTTC with support from the TVET Sector Support Programme (TVET SSP), in collaboration with the European Union, GIZ, British Council, and other partners. The dialogue brought together international experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to deliberate on the future of skills development in Pakistan. The event was graced by Federal Minister for Education & Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and Chairman PMYP, Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, whose presence added great value. Chairperson NAVTTC, Ms. Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, and Executive Director NAVTTC, Mr. Muhammad Aamir Jan, welcomed the international delegations and stakeholders, reaffirming NAVTTC’s commitment to global linkages and sustainable industry partnerships for the benefit of Pakistan’s youth. Federal Minister Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui in his address stressed that skills are the foundation of Pakistan’s economic progress and that international linkages will play a pivotal role in preparing youth for global competitiveness. Chairman PMYP, Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, emphasized that the vision of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme is to empower young Pakistanis with cutting-edge skills that create employment as well as entrepreneurship opportunities. Mr. Philipp Oliver Gross, Deputy Ambassador of the EU, praised Pakistan’s efforts to align TVET with global best practices, highlighting the dialogue’s role in fostering long-term collaboration. Chairperson NAVTTC reaffirmed commitment to reform and modernization, while Executive Director NAVTTC emphasized that industry-led programs are equipping youth for both local and international markets. Day one featured several key sessions, including: • Policy Dialogue: Intersecting policy imperatives for youth engagement, education, skills training, and employment • Breakout Session 1: Improving Governance for a Robust TVET System • Breakout Session 2: TVET Opportunities for Gender, Marginalized Communities, and other Vulnerable Groups • Breakout Session 3: Greening and Transforming TVET for a more Resilient and Sustainable Economy Day One featured sessions where experts shared insights on policy reforms, modernization, women’s participation, digital and green skills, and financing. The dialogue aims to foster partnerships and initiatives to boost skills development and integrate Pakistan into the global skills ecosystem.