ISLAMABAD: The inauguration ceremony of the EUR 64 million Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Sector Support Programme (Phase IV) took place at the Centre of Excellence in Modern Technologies.

The event marked a milestone under the European Union’s Team Europe Initiative on Building Back Better, aimed at creating green jobs in Pakistan and bringing together the EU, France, Germany and Italy.

Through this programme, the European Union and the German government will support Pakistan’s efforts towards improving technical education and employment prospects for its youth.

According to a statement, the Federal Education and Professional Training Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, speaking as chief guest, reiterated the Government of Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to fostering job opportunities, emphasising, “We are making all-out efforts to create job opportunities, which is only possible with the economic growth of the country.”

EU Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Riina Kionka, in her address, highlighted the importance of reforming the TVET sector to meet the needs of young people, particularly women.

She remarked, “Youth represents the future of Pakistan. Harnessing their potential, especially that of women, and creating an enabling environment are critical for Pakistan’s prosperity.”

The EU is committed to working with Pakistan on TVET to create green jobs for more inclusive and sustained economic growth. We have witnessed tremendous improvements in making this sector sustainable, she added.

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2024