## Pakistan Adopts Chinese Vocational Training Models to Empower Youth and Women

In a significant move to modernize Pakistan’s technical and vocational education sector, the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) has initiated multiple programs drawing inspiration from China’s proven success. These initiatives are specifically designed to equip young Pakistanis with skills demanded by the market and to empower women by including them in trades historically dominated by men, stated Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, Chairperson of NAVTTC.

In an exclusive interview, Chairperson Gulmina Bilal Ahmad emphasized NAVTTC’s focus on empowering youth, particularly women, through inclusive, research-based, and sustainable skill development. “Traditionally male-dominated trades like plumbing, mobile repair, carpentry, and electrical work are now part of our women-only training programs,” the Chairperson revealed.

Ahmad detailed the program’s evolution: “Last year, we launched this as a pilot initiative under the Prime Minister’s special directive, and it is now a regular feature in NAVTTC’s programming.” She highlighted that high-tech IT training and other contemporary skilling programs have been modeled after successful Chinese practices. “We studied the Chinese system, adapted their model, and asked ourselves: how can we apply this to Pakistan’s unique needs?” Responding to questions about funding and sustainability, Chairperson Ahmad clarified: “The main challenge is not a lack of resources, but rather the efficient and strategic use of those resources. We are committed to making data-driven decisions based on district-level needs and labor market demands.”

To support this data-driven approach, NAVTTC has developed an online platform providing real-time information on training institutions nationwide. “From Sanghar to Dalbandin, you can now see how many co-education institutes exist in a district, what their teacher qualifications are, and whether they are operating at full capacity,” she explained.

Chairperson Ahmad credited the Prime Minister’s personal commitment as crucial to the effectiveness and nationwide reach of Pakistan’s skilling agenda. “His vision is to ensure maximum impact, functionality, and long-term relevance,” she stated. Regarding future cooperation with China, Ahmad concluded: “China is more than a partner—it is a brother who generously shares its development experience with us. The responsibility now lies with us to localize those models and implement them with purpose.”

Chairperson Ahmad made these remarks while in China at the invitation of Tang International Education Group. During her visit, she attended a ceremony honoring eight Pakistani female students who completed technical and vocational training. A new batch of sixteen female students has also been enrolled for training.