By Dr. Muhammad Fazal ur Rehman
A remarkable gathering was recently held in Islamabad, bringing together experts, policymakers, educators, and industry representatives from Pakistan and abroad. The theme of the event was:
“Two-Day International Dialogue on TVET in the Shifting Socio-Economic Paradigm.”
At first glance, it may have seemed like a typical educational or policy conference, but in reality, this dialogue was deeply connected to the lives and futures of millions of Pakistani youth.
The two-day event was hosted and led by NAVTTC (National Vocational and Technical Training Commission) Chairperson Gulmina Bilal Ahmed, who has, over the past two years, steered the institution towards new directions with practical and reform-oriented measures.
In the opening session, Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, addressed the participants and shed light on the government’s vision for empowering youth.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, participated as the guest of honor and emphasized the need to create better employment opportunities for the new generation.
Among the international partners were the European Union (EU) and GIZ (Germany), both reaffirming their commitment to improving the quality of TVET in Pakistan.
This dialogue was not just a formal exchange of ideas—it directly tackled the practical issues and future needs of young people. Speakers stressed that the skills taught in training institutes must align with market demands. For example, if the IT industry requires digital marketing experts, training programs should be designed accordingly.
The world is rapidly moving toward digitalization. Therefore, it is crucial for Pakistani youth to gain expertise in modern fields such as freelancing, e-commerce, robotics, and automation.
The conference also highlighted the importance of women’s participation in the economy, emphasizing the need for safe working environments, subsidized training programs, and centers located close to their homes.
Speakers urged collaboration between private companies and educational institutions to provide hands-on training so that students can secure employment immediately after completing their courses.
An ordinary reader might wonder what such policy discussions mean for the public. In fact, if these initiatives are implemented effectively:
New employment opportunities will open up for young people.
They will be able to earn from home through freelancing and digital work.
Women will gain financial independence and become equal contributors to national development.
The quality of Pakistani overseas workers will improve, increasing foreign exchange inflows.
The two-day dialogue in Islamabad underscored a vital truth: the future belongs to the skilled.
Degrees alone will no longer suffice; it is practical ability and modern skillsets that will define success.
NAVTTC and its international partners presented valuable recommendations, offering hope that Pakistan’s TVET system is entering a new era. However, the real challenge lies in implementing these recommendations, for the future of our youth depends not merely on planning—but on practical action.
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