ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday marked World Youth Skills Day by reaffirming the government's commitment to expanding technical and vocational education, saying investment in skills development is essential for Pakistan's long-term economic growth and global competitiveness.
In a message on X, Sharif described Pakistan's youth as one of the country's greatest assets and said that equipping them with quality education, modern skills, and character development would help secure a more prosperous future.
He said rapid advances in digital innovation, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and the global economy are transforming labor markets, making internationally competitive skills increasingly important for sustainable development.
"Recognizing the central importance of skills development, the government has transformed the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) into a modern, dynamic, and future-oriented national institution," the prime minister said.
The Commission is being equipped to deliver internationally benchmarked training, globally recognized certifications, and industry-aligned skills that will enable Pakistani youth to compete with confidence, both at home and abroad.
The prime minister said that this year, the government has allocated a substantial budget through NAVTTC to strengthen technical skills development, reflecting our unwavering commitment to investing in Pakistan's human capital.
He said another central pillar of the government's strategy is not only to expand employment opportunities but also to nurture skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and a highly competent workforce capable of generating jobs, increasing exports, enhancing national productivity, and contributing meaningfully to sustainable economic development.
He reiterated the government's commitment to providing equal opportunities for men and women and said developing the country's workforce without discrimination remains a national priority.
Sharif expressed confidence that stronger training institutions, coordination between federal and provincial governments and collaboration with the private sector would help position Pakistan's skilled workforce as a symbol of competence, innovation and excellence.
He concluded by calling for renewed national efforts to ensure the talents of Pakistan's people are fully developed and translated into lasting economic prosperity.
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