Ahmed Khan Malik

The Balochistan government expects Rs14 billion from the European Union for the youth skill development program, reports WealthPK.

According to official documents, the financial assistance is most likely to come during the current fiscal after the EU’s firm assurance. The program aims to train and empower the youth for better employment opportunities as well as to revolutionize the skills training sector by transforming the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) landscape in the province. Talking to WealthPK, Saeed Baloch, Secretary of Skill Development Initiatives Project, said the project actually provided financial support to reduce the negative impact of economic deprivation, poverty and social inequality, environmental degradation and climate change, and to turn this into opportunities to build and empower resilient communities participating actively in identifying and implementing socio-economic development activities on a sustainable basis in partnership with the local authorities.

He noted that Balochistan’s landscape was set for a transformative shift as a wave of skill development initiatives takes root, spearheaded by the Prime Minister Youth Skill Development Program. With 8,873 young individuals currently enrolled in the first batch, this program is poised to equip the youth with essential skills for a brighter future. This initiative is more than just numbers; it symbolizes hope and opportunity for a region often overlooked, he said.  The secretary said the program was a beacon of hope for the youth, signifying commitment to providing them with the tools they needed to shape a prosperous future for Balochistan. He believed that this program will not only enhance skill levels but also promote social cohesion, a crucial step towards a harmonious and prosperous community by imparting skills, unity and mutual growth. Balochistan, which constitutes 43 percent of the total area of Pakistan, is endowed with massive reserves of precious minerals. This region has a tremendous potential to contribute to the country’s economy.

Its spectacular and diversified land mass, diligent inhabitants and variegated culture add to its significance not only domestically but also at the regional level. As an exit point of the CPEC, Balochistan has assumed a vital role in promoting the prosperity of the entire country. Saeed said establishment of vocational training centers to enhance skills was compatible with the ongoing development projects, which will enable the locals to seek jobs in ongoing and planned development projects. Over 50 percent of Baloch youths are illiterate, the second-highest number in Pakistan after the erstwhile FATA. The province has the highest percentage of illiterate young males in the country, at about 40%, which is even more alarming. Besides, 62.5% of young women lack the basic literacy skills, which is the second-highest percentage in the country. “How can we accomplish the coveted objectives of societal harmony, economic prosperity, political stability and peace when half of the youth in our nation are stumbling around in the darkness of ignorance and illiteracy,” Saeed questioned.

Credit: INP-WealthPk