Different programmes should be introduced which prove to be helpful for every citizen.
LAHORE: We see that the PML-N government is doing many things for the betterment of the youth. It has adopted new policies and started many youth initiatives recently. The Punjab Youth Festival, laptop distribution, the Youth Loan Scheme and the recently announced Punjab Youth Internship Programme for 2014 are different examples of its steps towards progress. The Punjab Youth Internship Programme is an initiative of the government of Punjab to equip the unemployed youth with productive skills so that they can tap better employment opportunities. The programme is specially designed for the unemployed youth so that it obtains basic training to enhance its skills, which will ensure a secure livelihood in the long term.
It is very good for young people to earn for themselves but, at the same time, the eligibility criteria for this programme states that only people with complete 16 years of education can apply for it. This creates a problem for those who are still in the process of completing their education and want to earn to support themselves and to share the burden of their parents.
I do not mean to cause any offence, but such rules become a barrier for those who are talented and keen, and want to work along with pursuing their studies. Some kind of relaxation should be made for such people. Different programmes should be introduced which prove to be helpful for every citizen. Such terms and conditions hinder their efforts towards a successful life and a decent earning. New policies should be made regarding this youth internship programme, which allow everyone to work, not only a limited number of people as stated in the eligibility criteria.
Sarah Daud
Published in The Express Tribune, January 10th, 2014.
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