KHYBER:
The labour force plays a crucial role in the development and progress of any nation. Therefore, around the world, countries have undertaken several measures and programmes to educate and enrich their labour forces. This has speeded up innovation and opened new industries and avenues creating more employment. Unfortunately, Pakistan continues to struggle with labour efficiency because of its unstable economic conditions.
The government needs to tackle the burgeoning unemployment issue head-on by taking proactive measures. Firstly, there needs to be increased coordination between the industrial sector and academia. Higher education institutes should ensure that graduates are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills required in the market. The government should incentivise public and private organisations to innovate and recruit fresh candidates with little experience. Skills development training schemes and apprenticeships should be launched that are accessible to all. Underprivileged and marginalised candidates must have quotas for such schemes and programmes.
In addition, labour should be protected from exploitation through strict laws and regulations. All institutions and organisations must be encouraged to recruit and promote candidates on merit. Bribery, nepotism, and discrimination based on gender, class, and ethnicity must be discouraged and action should be taken against companies engaging in gross practices. A skilled and efficient labour force can help drive the country towards innovation and growth.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 24th, 2023.
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