Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan, addressed the Inauguration Ceremony of China-Pakistan Technical Cooperation Workshops & WorldSkills Pakistan National Skills Competition 2026 as the Guest of Honour emphasizing thegovernment’s commitment to empowering young people through employment opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and skills development initiatives.
At the outset, he welcomed Honourable Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan, H.E. Jiang Zaidong, Executive Director Nationalal Vocational and Technical Training Commission Mr. Muhammad Aamir Jan, representatives of Chinese partner institutions, industry leaders, development partners, and youth participants. He described the Event as a significant milestone reflecting the strong friendship and growing cooperation between Pakistan and China in technical education and skills development.
Speaking on the occasion, he stated that the government’s foremost responsibility is to positively engage youth and provide them with meaningful platforms to utilize their talent and potential for national development.
He announced that Pakistan’s first-ever National Youth Employment Policy has been approved by the federal cabinet and will soon be formally launched by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Highlighting key features of the policy, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan said that the government has decided to conduct the Labour Force Survey annually instead of every four years to ensure accurate and up-to-date data regarding employment trends and workforce participation. He noted that the initiative would help policymakers make informed decisions and better prepare for future employment challenges.
The Chairman further shared that under the National Youth Employment Policy, the government aims to achieve a minimum 10 percent annual increase in new company registrations while extending full support to startups and young entrepreneurs across the country.
Emphasizing women’s economic empowerment, he stated that the policy seeks to ensure at least 35 percent participation of women in the labour force. He added that the government is committed to creating dignified and sustainable opportunities for women to contribute actively to Pakistan’s economy.
Chairman also appreciated the efforts of National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), praising its leadership and team for successfully transforming the institution into an effective platform for technical and vocational education.
He particularly acknowledged Brigadier Sajid Khokhar for his contributions to vocational training initiatives in Punjab and stressed that the development of all provinces is essential for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
Quoting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, he remarked that the development of a single province alone cannot guarantee national progress unless all provinces advance together.
Addressing the youth participating in overseas training opportunities, he expressed confidence that selected candidates traveling to China would achieve success and return with valuable experience that would contribute to Pakistan’s growth and prosperity.
The Chairman concluded by congratulating the participants on their achievements and encouraging them to continue working hard for a brighter future for themselves and the country.
Pakistan Zindabad
