KARACHI: The Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP), in collaboration with the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), has completed the first phase of its youth skills development programme aimed at equipping young Pakistanis with technical expertise and entrepreneurial skills.
Under the initiative, 75 students in Quaidabad received hands-on training in mining techniques, import-export documentation, value addition and industry-related practices. The programme aims to align young people’s skills with market demand, enabling them to secure employment or launch their own businesses.
SMAP Chairperson Saima Akhtar and former chairperson Qasim Yaqoob Paracha described the completion of the training programme in Punjab as a milestone. They announced that the next phase would begin next month in Karachi, Khewra, and Toba/Layyah, with a target of training 250 young men and women.
“The success of the first phase has encouraged us to expand the programme further. Industry-linked training is vital for creating employment opportunities and enhancing Pakistan’s export potential,” said Paracha.
“By preparing young people for careers in mining, value addition and trade, we can strengthen local industry and boost exports,” Akhtar said, adding that collaboration between industry and training institutions was key to sustainable growth.
SMAP leaders praised Shah Shamas-ul-Arifeen, coordinator for SMAP, as well as NAVTTC teams and partner training institutes, for their role in making the programme a success. They emphasised that equipping young people with modern, industry-relevant skills was essential for Pakistan’s economic stability.
