Maryam Nawaz Unveils Punjab’s Biggest Skilled Workforce Export Program

Punjab’s Bold Plan to Train and Export Skilled Workers: Creating Jobs for 100,000 Youth

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled an ambitious initiative to train and export skilled workers, aiming to secure jobs for 100,000 young people. During a high-level meeting, CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the need for a well-structured plan to help skilled workers find employment abroad. The program includes various training schemes like call center courses, the "Skills on Wheel" project, and international IT certifications, with a strong focus on empowering youth and women across Punjab.

Key Highlights of the Punjab Skilled Manpower Export Plan

• Goal: Train and place 100,000 youth in jobs.
• Skills on Wheel Project: Mobile training units for remote areas.
• Call Center Training: 5,000 youth to be trained.
• Garment Industry Training: 480 women to receive specialized training.
• International IT Certifications: Targeting 10,000 youth.
• Hospitality Training: In partnership with the UK.
• Transgender Training: 1,600 individuals trained in textiles and makeup.
• Rural Women Digital Training: 27,000 applications received.
• Digital Dashboard: To track skill development programs and job placements.

Comprehensive Training Programs & Job Opportunities

1. Call Center Training Program

• Participants: 5,000 youth.
• Duration: Six weeks.
• Expected Salary: Around Rs 100,000 per month after completion.
• New Feature: ‘Plug and Play’ system to simplify job placement.

2. Skills on Wheel Project

To reach youth in remote areas, the Punjab government, in collaboration with private partners, introduced the Skills on Wheel initiative. This mobile training facility brings essential skills directly to underprivileged communities, ensuring more people have access to quality training.

3. Garment Training for Women

• Participants: 480 women at the Garment Training Institute in Quaid-i-Azam Business Park.
• Perks: Pick-and-drop services, Rs 20,000 monthly stipend, and guaranteed jobs in leading textile companies.

4. IT & Digital Training for Youth

• International IT Certifications: 4,000 youth have completed the course, with a goal of 10,000 participants. The program focuses on globally recognized IT skills, preparing participants for international job markets.
• Rural Women Digital Training: Over 27,000 women have applied for free English and IT training, which includes providing each participant with a desktop computer for practical learning.

Special Programs for Marginalized Communities

1. Transgender Training Program

1,600 transgender individuals are receiving training in textiles, makeup, and backstage production, supported by a monthly stipend of Rs 8,000. The Tabeer job placement program assists them in finding suitable employment.

2. Hospitality Training in Collaboration with the UK

This six-month program offers training and certification in partnership with a British institution, with job placement support after the program's completion.

Digital Transformation in Skill Development

To improve efficiency, Punjab’s Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Department will launch a centralized digital dashboard by mid-April. This platform will:

• Provide real-time updates on training programs.
• Track job placements.
• Allow online applications for skill development courses.

CM Maryam Nawaz on Youth Empowerment

CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted the critical role of skilled youth in Pakistan’s economic growth:

"Our youth are the backbone of Pakistan’s future. By providing quality training and job opportunities, we are integrating them into the nation’s development. The Punjab government is fully committed to this vision."

Reversal of Lahore Bus Fare Hike

Alongside skill development, CM Maryam Nawaz addressed public concerns over the Lahore Sightseeing Bus fare increase. She reversed the fare hike, ensuring tourism remains affordable:

Service Type	Previous Fare	Increased Fare	Revised Fare
General Public	Rs 200	Rs 500	Rs 200
Corporate & Educational Groups	Rs 5,000	Rs 20,000	Rs 5,000

Why This Plan Matters

Punjab’s Skilled Manpower Export Plan is set to transform the province by providing global job opportunities, enhancing skills, and ensuring financial stability for its youth. Under CM Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, programs like call center training, IT certifications, and garment industry training will create a highly skilled and competitive workforce.

By combining digital innovation with inclusive training programs for marginalized groups and rural communities, Punjab is paving the way for economic growth and job creation.

FAQs

1. What is the Punjab Skilled Manpower Export Plan?

A plan to train 100,000 youth in various skills and help them secure jobs, both locally and internationally.

2. What does the Call Center Training Program offer?

A six-week training program with job placements offering around Rs 100,000 per month and an easy ‘Plug and Play’ job entry system.

3. How is the government supporting women?

480 women will get garment industry training with stipends and transport, and 27,000 rural women will receive free IT and English training with desktops provided for learning.

4. What digital improvements are included?

A centralized digital dashboard will track training programs and job placements, launching by mid-April.

5. Why was the Lahore Bus fare hike reversed?

CM Maryam Nawaz reversed the hike to maintain affordable tourism and support the local economy.

Punjab’s initiative promises to unlock new job opportunities and skill enhancement for youth and women, creating a more robust economy and brighter future for the province.