Women-focused skill programmes launched

In a transformative effort to reshape the technical and vocational education landscape, Pakistan's National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) has launched multiple initiatives inspired by China's successful models.

These programmes are not only equipping youth with market-relevant skills but are also empowering women in traditionally male-dominated trades, said Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, Chairperson of NAVTTC.

In an interview with the China Economic Net, Gulmina Bilal Ahmad emphasised the need for empowering youth – especially women – through inclusive, research-based and sustainable skill development initiatives.

"Traditionally male-dominated trades like plumbing, mobile repair, carpentry and electrical works are now part of our women-only training programmes," the chairperson revealed. "Last year, we launched this as a pilot initiative under the prime minister's special directive and it is now a regular feature in NAVTTC's programming."

She noted that hi-tech IT training and several other modern skilling programmes had been modelled after successful practices in China. "We studied the Chinese system, adopted their model and asked ourselves: how can we apply this to Pakistan's unique needs?"

Responding to a question on funding and long-term sustainability, the chairperson clarified: "The main challenge is not a lack of resources, but rather efficient and strategic use of those resources. We are committed to making data-driven decisions based on district-level needs and labour market demands."

NAVTTC has developed an online platform, which provides real-time data on training institutions across the country. "From Sanghar to Dalbandin, you can now see how many co-education institutes exist in a district, what their teacher qualifications are and whether they are operating at full capacity," she explained.

The chairperson credited the prime minister's personal interest in the success of Pakistan's skilling agenda as a driving force behind its effectiveness and nationwide reach. "His vision is to ensure maximum impact, functionality and long-term relevance."

When asked about future cooperation with China, she concluded: "China is more than a partner; it is a brother who generously shares its development experience with us. The responsibility now lies with us to localise those models and implement them with purpose."

It is worth noting that Gulmina Ahmad is currently in China at the invitation of Tang International Education Group, where she recently attended a ceremony for eight Pakistani female students, who completed technical and vocational training. Additionally, a new batch of 16 female students has been enrolled.