GILGIT, Oct 21 An international organisation has established gemstone cutting and polishing training centres across Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral to exploit the rich mineral resources of the impoverished regions.

“Over 400 people, 55 per cent of them are women, have so far been trained at these centres,” Chief Executive Officer Rupani Foundation Sultan Ahmed said at a briefing session about the vision and plans of the organisation at the Gemstone Enterprise Development Centre here on Wednesday. Senior representatives of Gilgit-Baltistan Gems and Minerals Association (Nagma), and others participated in the session.

“Many of these graduates have emerged as master trainers and supervisors, and have now assumed a multitude of responsibilities in the production units,” he added. “Plans are underway to convert the existing centres into training and production units.”

The foundation also plans to provide the necessary support for the establishment of required infrastructure for the development of the mining sector and facilitating the traders to bring their products from mine to market.

“This model is unique. It will not only develop value-added chain for moving the precious stones from the mines to the market globally, but will also bring in necessary investments for building roads, schools, hospitals and development of agriculture sector,” he said.

Mr Ahmed said that the foundation “plans to bring innovation and quality in the products for local, national and international market. This will ultimately bring a huge change in the economy of Gilgit-Baltistan by providing income opportunities to thousands of artisans as well as buyers and suppliers”.

Later, guests visited the lapidary for gemstone cutting and polishing training as well as services. Established in 2006, the foundation aims to reduce poverty, enhance technical skills of women and unemployed youth as well as promote social entrepreneurship and joint ventures.

“Our primary approach revolves around the development of local human resources in terms of entrepreneurial, managerial, technical, marketing and financial skills. It provides support to carry out research, conduct pilots and initiate projects in value-added sectors,” said Project Manager Saidullah Baig. — Correspondent