International support for workforce development in Pakistan continues to grow as diplomats and United Nations agencies reaffirm their commitment to skills training initiatives. The renewed pledge came during a high-level roundtable conference hosted by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) in Islamabad.
The conference, titled “TVET: Strengthening International Cooperation for Skills Development in Pakistan,” brought together ambassadors and representatives from 16 countries, along with major international organisations including the International Labour Organisation (ILO), UNICEF, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Participants stressed the urgent need to strengthen Pakistan’s technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system to meet evolving global labour market demands. Experts highlighted that equipping youth with modern, industry-relevant skills is essential for improving employability and driving economic growth.
Representatives from the German and United States embassies emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in building a sustainable and competitive workforce. Meanwhile, the European Union reaffirmed its ongoing support for Pakistan’s skills development programs.
The ambassador of Mauritius proposed mutual cooperation opportunities, suggesting that Pakistan could benefit from Mauritius’ tourism expertise, while Mauritius could learn from Pakistan’s construction sector experience.
NAVTTC Chairperson Gulmina Bilal Ahmad noted that such collaborations are key to empowering youth, promoting innovation, and creating new employment opportunities. She added that international cooperation is playing a crucial role in aligning Pakistan’s workforce with global standards.
The initiative reflects Pakistan’s broader efforts to modernize its workforce, reduce unemployment, and compete effectively in the global economy.
