Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Mian Kashif Ashfaq has said that sustainable economic growth can be achieved by training the manpower on modern scientific lines. Addressing a seminar titled “Role of Skilled Manpower in Economic Growth” held in Lahore on Sunday, he said as the global community moves rapidly towards a economic based economy, the importance of a workforce equipped with advanced skills and scientific knowledge cannot be overstated. Mian Kashif Ashfaq said that fostering such talent in Pakistan was vital for economic development as it enhances the competitive edge, allowing it to innovate and improve efficiency in various industries. He said it supports the development of new technologies and industries, thereby diversifying the economy and reducing dependency on traditional sectors. He said we are confronting huge scarcity of skilled manpower in all sectors and technical colleges and institutes are lacking capacity to enroll required number of students meeting ever increasing demand of industrial sectors.

The CEO PFC was of the view that a skilled workforce contributes to higher productivity and quality in manufacturing and services, leading to increased exports and foreign investment. This, in turn, generates job opportunities, reduces unemployment, and improves living standards. He said skilled professionals in manufacturing, engineering, and information technology and other sectors were essential for addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges, such as healthcare access and digital transformation. Mian Kashif Ashfaq added that investing in education and training programs that emphasize modern scientific and technical skills was essential for Pakistan’s long-term prosperity. Such efforts ensure that the country remains competitive in the global market and can sustainably develop its economy, thereby improving the overall quality of life for its people, he concluded. Other speakers included Sana Ch, Hafsa, Sadia, Amna, Nida, Aiman, Kashmala and Fizza also urged the government to set up more number of quality technical institutes across the country which will not only create ample job opportunities but also contribute significantly towards sustainable economic development.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan