China and UNDP boost youth employment in Pakistan

The 'Strengthening PPE-related Manufacturing Capacities in Pakistan' project, a joint initiative between the Government of China and UNDP Pakistan, recently concluded with a successful closing ceremony in Islamabad. The project aimed to enhance employment and business opportunities for youth and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab.

During the ceremony, attended by dignitaries from China and Pakistan, the focus was on the collaborative efforts that led to the establishment of 17 Common Facility Centers equipped with modern industrial training and production equipment. These centers will play a crucial role in enhancing the skills of young workers and MSMEs, enabling them to meet market demands effectively.

Over the next three years, the project targets to benefit 10,000 young individuals, with a special emphasis on empowering women. The training provided at the centers covers a wide range of industrial processes, including the production of Personal Protective Equipment, textiles, plastic goods, furniture, and other commercial products. MSMEs will also have access to these facilities to support their production activities.

The project's focus on commercial production and income generation is aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the centers in the long term. By leveraging the right technologies and technical support, Pakistan's MSMEs can enhance productivity, create employment opportunities, and produce high-quality goods for both local and international markets.

The collaborative efforts between China, UNDP Pakistan, and the Federal and Provincial Governments underscore the importance of working together to achieve sustainable development and empower the youth of Pakistan. The support from China and UNDP is instrumental in building a prosperous future for the country's young population, paving the way for economic growth and social development.