Balochistan's Youth Urgently Need Technical Education to Unleash Province's Potential
Members of the Balochistan Assembly and stakeholders from the education sector have emphasized the importance of imparting technical education to the youth in the province, highlighting its potential to address unemployment and contribute to Pakistan's development. The province's young population is seen as a key driver for the region's growth, with projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Gwadar Port offering opportunities for development. However, the lack of technical skills among the youth hinders the province's ability to take advantage of these opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- MPA Kalsoom Niaz Baloch stressed the urgent need for technical education in Balochistan, citing the province's rich mineral resources and potential to contribute significantly to Pakistan's development.
- Baloch highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between the state and the youth by investing in quality technical education, ensuring that the province's youth are equipped with skills to take advantage of opportunities.
- The establishment of a public library and a technical training center in Jaffarabad is seen as a vital step in providing educational and economic opportunities for the region's residents.
- NUST Balochistan Campus Director, Dr. Mughees Aslam, emphasized the institution's commitment to social responsibility and aligning the province's education system with national standards.
- PPAF's Specialist Social Services, Muhammad Siraj-ul-Haq Ghori, underscored the organization's commitment to promoting skilled-based and modern education for sustainable development in Balochistan.
- Dr. Abdul Rehman Khan, Provincial Lead PPAF, highlighted the importance of equipping Pakistan's large youth population with practical skills for economic growth and eradicating unemployment.
- CEO WORDS Pakistan, Dr. Muhammad Hayat Jamali, stated that the new library and TVET center in Jaffarabad will provide facilities for students to train in various trades, along with matching grants to support them in starting their own businesses.
Statistics:
- The province of Balochistan covers an area of approximately 347,190 square kilometers, making it the largest province in Pakistan by area (Pakistan Census Bureau, 2017).
- PPAF has been working across all provinces to enhance skill development, with a focus on empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PPAF Report, 2022).
- The new library and TVET center in Jaffarabad will offer training in various trades, including information technology, e-commerce, smart agriculture, fashion design, and beauty and wellness (WORDS Pakistan Press Release, 2023).
Sources:
- WORDS Pakistan Press Release, "Empowering Youth Through Education and Skills Training" (2023)
- PPAF Report, "Enhancing Skill Development Across Pakistan" (2022)
- Pakistan Census Bureau, "Census of Pakistan 2017" (2017)
- Quetta Times, "MPA Baloch Emphasizes Need for Technical Education in Balochistan" (2023)