KARACHI:
Engineering and medicine are among the most demanding professions, both requiring years of rigorous academic training before graduates assume responsibilities that directly affect society. Yet, whereas medical graduates undergo a structured, paid house job to gain practical experience, engineering graduates are largely left to navigate the transition from university to industry on their own. That such a disparity exists between two equally vital professions deserves serious reconsideration.
Fresh engineering graduates frequently struggle to secure employment, employers preferring experienced candidates while offering few opportunities to acquire that very experience. What begins as a search for employment often ends in prolonged unemployment, with many talented graduates abandoning the profession altogether or seeking opportunities abroad. Being denied meaningful practical exposure at the outset of their careers undermines both their confidence and professional competence.
A structured apprenticeship programme for engineers, supervised jointly by the government, industry and the Pakistan Engineering Council, would bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace requirements. To be given the opportunity to work under experienced engineers would not only strengthen graduates’ technical skills but also enhance their employability. Equally important, such a programme, with trainees receiving a reasonable stipend, would ease the financial burden on young professionals while encouraging them to remain in the country.
There are three reasons why such a policy deserves consideration: it would produce industry-ready engineers, reduce graduate unemployment and strengthen Pakistan’s engineering capacity. Three more justify its urgency: discouraging brain drain, improving infrastructure projects and promoting innovation.
Engineering is to national development what medicine is to public health. If one profession merits structured practical training before independent practice, one wonders why the other should be denied a similar opportunity. It is hoped that the Pakistan Engineering Council, in collaboration with the federal and provincial governments, will seriously examine the introduction of a paid engineering graduate training programme.
Riaz Mahar
Sukkur
