20 January 2005	Thursday	09 Zilhaj 1425

PESHAWAR, Jan 19: The Gems and Gemological Institute of Pakistan (GGIP) has asked the NWFP governor to help in getting financial assistance from the federal government and provide a suitable land in Peshawar for the establishment of a permanent premises for the institute.

Speaking at a certificate-awarding ceremony held at the institute here on Wednesday, its chairman Haji Maamoor Khan said that almost 78 machines, 55 local and 23 imported, had been installed in the institute and about 800 youths had completed training in different disciplines.

The institute needs funds from the federal government so that the facilities could be better utilised and entrepreneurs could be encouraged to promote exports of semi-precious and precious gems.

Governor Syed Iftikhar Hussain Shah, who was chief guest at the ceremony, distribute certificates among 60 graduates who have completed their training in gemology, faceting and carving.

The governor the governor saw various sections of the institute, inspected the training facilities available and met trainees individually and inquired about their education.

In reply to demands made by the chairman of the institute, the governor assured him to take necessary initiatives in this respect. The governor stressed the need of accelerated investment to exploit the available resources in the province to ensure rapid development

The governor said that instead of depending on foreign entrepreneurship, young businessmen should come forward and play an effective role in the development of the province.

He said the performance of the institute was satisfactory. Shujaa-ud-Din, director-general, Export Promotion Bureau, on this occasion, said the NWFP had got special identity with special reference to production as well as trade of precious and semi-precious stones the world over.