Punjab’s new skill development initiative, launched by CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, aims to train 60,000 youth annually in IT and vocational skills, offering free courses and international certifications. Targeting ages 18-35, the program focuses on modern fields like AI, cybersecurity, and culinary arts, enhancing employability globally. With a deadline of November 10, 2024, it promises economic transformation.
Punjab’s Youth Skill Program Targets 60,000 Jobs
The Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has rolled out the ambitious Chief Minister Punjab Skill Development Program to empower the state’s youth with cutting-edge skills. Launched in 2024, the initiative aims to train 60,000 young individuals annually across 184 vocational training institutes, with a focus on both IT and non-IT sectors. The program, implemented through the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA), offers free courses in fields like Python programming, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, cybersecurity, digital marketing, data analytics, graphic design, and emerging areas such as culinary arts and hospitality.
The initiative addresses the critical gap in market-relevant skills by aligning curricula with global industry demands. Courses, spanning three months, are designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and internationally recognized certifications from companies like Microsoft, Adobe, Cisco, and Meta. These certifications enhance employability, enabling Punjab’s youth to compete in global job markets. The program, which began admissions on December 15, 2024, with classes starting January 15, 2025, targets individuals aged 18-35 with educational qualifications ranging from Matriculation to Bachelor’s degrees, depending on the course.
A key feature of the scheme is its inclusivity, welcoming both male and female candidates and extending opportunities to economically disadvantaged groups. Eligibility criteria include Punjab residency and a family income below a specified threshold, ensuring accessibility for marginalized communities. The application deadline for the initial phase was November 10, 2024, with registrations facilitated through an online TEVTA portal, making the process user-friendly.
Beyond IT, the program has introduced courses in culinary arts and hospitality, including professional restaurant front-of-house services, to diversify skill sets and cater to growing industries. The Punjab government has also partnered with international organizations and private sector entities to ensure high-quality training environments and globally aligned standards. Plans are underway to establish Pakistan’s first IT city in Lahore, further solidifying the state’s commitment to becoming a hub for technological innovation.
The initiative is part of a broader vision to transform Punjab’s economy by leveraging its youthful demographic. By providing free training and fostering industry-academia collaboration, the program aims to bridge the skill gap and reduce unemployment. Vocational training institutes across the state are equipped to simulate real-world work environments, preparing students for immediate employment. The government projects that the scheme will not only create local job opportunities but also open doors for Punjab’s youth in international markets, driving both regional and national progress.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements, official websites, and reports from reliable sources such as TEVTA, Punjab Skills Development Authority, and news platforms like 8171programe.pk and hunarnama.org. Data is accurate as of July 3, 2025, and subject to change. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels like portal.tevta.gop.pk for registration and eligibility.