PM Shehbaz directs embassies to identify jobs for skilled workers

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed Pakistan’s diplomatic missions abroad to intensify efforts in identifying overseas employment opportunities for the country’s skilled workforce.

Chairing a review meeting focused on expanding job prospects for Pakistani youth, the prime minister also ordered the complete digitisation of the Protectorate of Emigrants system to streamline services for those seeking jobs abroad.

He instructed the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis, the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), and the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme to ensure the provision of internationally relevant skills training, language courses, and professional certifications. He stressed that the government is committed to equipping young people with internationally recognised education and skills.

The prime minister further directed authorities to strengthen coordination with other countries to align Pakistani certifications with global standards, making the local workforce more competitive in international job markets. He also sought a report on the performance of technical and vocational training institutions and instructed officials to establish “Country of Destination Centres” with language training tailored to specific countries.

During the meeting, officials reported that around 800,000 young people have registered on the Digital Youth Hub, a platform developed by the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme and UNICEF. It was stated that Pakistani embassies will share information on available jobs and required qualifications through this portal.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Ministers Musadik Malik, Attaullah Tarar, and Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani.