ECC calls for phased agri-training plan

Pakistan's economic managers have raised serious concerns over a $10.972 million government-funded initiative to send 1,000 agricultural professionals for training in China. The programme currently includes only public sector professionals, with no representation from private-sector stakeholders or farmers, leading the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) to call for a more inclusive and cost-effective approach.

In a recent meeting, the ECC discussed the proposed training programme, expressing concerns over the high spending and the lack of detailed budget breakdown. The Finance Division recommended rationalising the costs, suggesting a phased implementation and better clarity on miscellaneous expenditures noted in the proposal. They argued that more rigorous budget planning and a phased rollout would allow for more effective monitoring and utilisation of resources.

The ECC also observed the need for private-sector inclusion, recommending that subsequent training batches include private sector representatives such as farmers and agriculturists, as the first cohort has already been selected. The committee stressed that this diversity would yield more practical benefits, enabling wider adoption of advanced agricultural practices across Pakistan's farming community.

The ECC emphasised that the programme should ultimately generate measurable improvements in the agriculture sector, contrasting with previous initiatives that failed to make a significant impact. The committee directed the ministry to develop a solid framework to monitor the programme's outcomes and ensure that the trainees contribute positively to Pakistan's agricultural landscape.

The Ministry of National Food Security & Research (MNFSR) has been tasked with creating a detailed mechanism to manage the training of these 1,000 agricultural professionals. Following the prime minister's directive, the MNFSR formed a committee of technical experts to identify priority training areas, develop courses, establish eligibility criteria, and allocate seats among universities and provincial or federal institutions. This committee is also responsible for calculating the funding requirements for the programme.

The programme originated from a high-level visit to China by Pakistan's prime minister in June 2024. During the visit, Chinese officials showcased their advancements in agricultural productivity, technology integration, and resource management. The PM, aiming to bring similar progress to Pakistan, directed that 1,000 agricultural professionals be sent to China for practical training in modern agricultural methods. The goal is for these professionals to serve as "master trainers" who can help bridge knowledge gaps, enhance food security, and promote sustainable agriculture upon their return.

Following the visit, a comprehensive concept paper was developed by the MNFSR in collaboration with technical experts and shared with the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad for their input and concurrence. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has been designated to oversee funding and logistics for the programme. This includes managing partnerships with foreign universities, conducting pre-departure orientations, disbursing funds, and coordinating with both Chinese institutions and the Pakistani Embassy in China.

The programme's budget of Rs3,072.056 million (approximately $10.972 million, based on an exchange rate of Rs280 per dollar) was calculated using estimates provided by Chinese authorities for training expenses and local estimates for air travel costs. Despite support for the initiative, the Finance Division suggested that the funding be allocated from the HEC's budget for FY 2024-25, although the HEC is already facing budgetary constraints.

The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training informed the ECC that the prime minister had approved the programme through a summary prepared by the MNFSR. On November 1, 2024, the ECC discussed the proposal and instructed that it be presented again on November 4, 2024, with a more detailed budget plan. The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training formally requested the ECC's approval for a technical supplementary grant of Rs3,072.056 million, urging that funds be allocated to the HEC and supported with equivalent foreign exchange cover provided by the Finance Division to meet the training expenses.

The ECC has conditionally approved the "Short-Term Training (3 and 6 months) of 1,000 Agricultural Professionals in China" programme, with the stipulation that expenditure should be distributed in phases in consultation with the Finance Division. This phased approach would ensure budget efficiency and better management of programme resources over time.

Furthermore, the ECC instructed the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to create a detailed, results-driven plan for using the knowledge acquired through this programme to support Pakistani farmers. The ECC has asked the ministry to present this plan within two weeks, underscoring the need for a concrete strategy that ensures the training yields tangible benefits in Pakistan's agricultural sector.