Balochistan launches vocational training programme in Quetta

The Balochistan government has formally launched the Youth Vocational Skills Training Program in Quetta, a provincial scheme intended to give young people technical and vocational training and improve their chances of finding work or starting small businesses.

More than 240 women are currently enrolled in courses that include beauty services and hand embroidery, according to ProPakistani, which reported the launch. TechJuice carried the same enrolment figure. The provincial government has set a target of training more than 720 young people in Quetta under the programme.

Both reports were thin on the mechanics of the launch. Neither named the provincial minister or department responsible for the scheme, gave a budget, or said where in Quetta the classes are being held. Neither said whether the courses are free or how participants are selected.

The training is described as practical in nature, so that participants can look for employment or set up small businesses once they finish. The programme places a particular focus on women, and the government expects it to improve employment prospects, strengthen women's economic independence and encourage entrepreneurship among young people in the province.

ProPakistani reported that the initiative is also meant to reduce unemployment and promote economic self-reliance. TechJuice said the skills being taught are aligned with modern industry requirements.

According to both outlets the programme is being run in Quetta. Neither report said whether it will be extended to other districts of Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by area and among those least served by technical training institutions.

Both outlets are technology and business news sites that regularly carry government scheme announcements. No statement from a named provincial official accompanied either report.