Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched an ambitious plan to train and export skilled manpower, targeting 100,000 youth for job placements. In a high-level meeting, she directed officials to develop a structured roadmap for skilled workers to secure employment abroad. The initiative includes various programs, such as call center training, "Skills on Wheel," and international IT certifications, to empower youth and women across Punjab.
Key Highlights of the Punjab Skilled Manpower Export Plan
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100,000 Youth Targeted for Training & Job Placements
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Skills on Wheel Project for Remote Areas
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Call Center Training for 5,000 Youth
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Garment Training for 480 Women
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International IT Certifications for 10,000 Youth
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Hospitality Training in Collaboration with the UK
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1,600 Transgender Individuals Trained in Textile & Makeup
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27,000 Applications for Rural Women Digital Training
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Launch of a Digital Dashboard for Skill Development
Comprehensive Training & Employment Initiatives
1. Call Center Training Program
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5,000 youth will receive training in call center operations.
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Training duration: Six weeks
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Expected salary after completion: Rs 100,000 per month
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‘Plug and Play’ call center system introduced to facilitate trainees.
2. Skills on Wheel Project
To support youth in remote areas, the Punjab government has launched the Skills on Wheel initiative in partnership with the private sector. This mobile training facility will reach underprivileged communities, equipping them with essential skills.
3. Garment Training for Women
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480 women to be trained at the Garment Training Institute in Quaid-i-Azam Business Park.
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Benefits for trainees:
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Pick-and-drop service.
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Stipend of Rs 20,000 per month.
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Guaranteed placement in top textile companies.
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4. IT & Digital Training for Youth
International IT Certifications
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4,000 youth have already completed certifications.
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Target expansion: 10,000 participants.
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Training includes top-tier international courses for job readiness.
Rural Women Digital Training Program
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27,000 applications received for free English and IT training.
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Each participant receives a desktop computer for hands-on learning.
Special Initiatives for Marginalized Groups
1. Training for Transgender Community
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1,600 transgender individuals trained in textile, makeup, and backstage production.
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Monthly stipend: Rs 8,000.
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Assisted through the Tabeer job placement program.
2. Free Hospitality Training with UK Collaboration
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Six-month training program in the hospitality industry.
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Training and certification in partnership with a British institution.
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Employment opportunities arranged upon completion.
Digital Transformation in Skill Development
Centralized Digital Dashboard
To streamline skill development programs, a centralized digital dashboard for the Punjab Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Department will be launched by mid-April. This system will:
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Provide real-time updates on training programs.
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Track job placements.
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Facilitate online applications for skill development courses.
CM Maryam Nawaz on Youth Empowerment
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that equipping youth with essential skills is crucial for Pakistan’s economic development. She stated:
“Training and job opportunities will integrate youth into the development process. Pakistan’s future depends on equipping our talented youth with skills. The Punjab government will offer full support for training and job placement.”
Reversal of Double-Decker Bus Fare Hike
In addition to the skill development initiatives, CM Maryam Nawaz also took swift action on public concerns regarding fare hikes for the Sightseeing Lahore Bus Service.
Revised Bus Fares
Service Type | Previous Fare | Increased Fare | Reverted Fare |
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General Public | Rs 200 | Rs 500 | Rs 200 |
Corporate & Educational Bookings | Rs 5,000 | Rs 20,000 | Rs 5,000 |
Expressing dissatisfaction with the fare hike decision, she ensured the restoration of affordable prices to promote tourism in Lahore.
Punjab's Skilled Manpower Export Plan is a game-changer for the province, offering young individuals opportunities for global employment, skill enhancement, and financial stability. With CM Maryam Nawaz’s proactive leadership, initiatives like call center training, international IT certifications, and garment training for women will shape the future of Punjab’s workforce.
By combining digital innovation, inclusive programs for marginalized communities, and support for rural youth, Punjab is taking a bold step toward economic growth and employment generation.
FAQs
1. What is the Punjab Skilled Manpower Export Plan?
The plan aims to train 100,000 youth in various skills and facilitate job placements, especially abroad.
2. What are the benefits of the Call Center Training Program?
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Six-week training in call center operations.
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Rs 100,000 monthly salary after job placement.
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‘Plug and Play’ system for an easier transition into the workforce.
3. How is the Punjab government supporting women through skill development?
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480 women will receive garment industry training with stipends and pick-and-drop facilities.
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27,000 rural women will receive free digital training and desktop computers.
4. What digital advancements are included in this plan?
A centralized digital dashboard will be launched by mid-April to track all skill development and employment initiatives.
5. Why was the Lahore Bus Fare hike reversed?
CM Maryam Nawaz ordered the rollback to keep the Sightseeing Lahore Bus Service affordable, promoting tourism.
