China Launches Workforce Training for Pakistani Youth

BRI-backed programme to enhance vocational skills and youth employability

P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

China Launches Workforce Training for Pakistani Youth


In a strategic move to promote sustainable development and youth employment across Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations, China and Pakistan have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a large-scale workforce training programme. The agreement, signed in Beijing by Qaiser Nawab, Chairman of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), and Duan Xiaofei, General Manager of CIIC International Education Technology, signifies a major advancement in vocational training, capacity building, and industry-academia collaboration.

P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

Under this initiative, CIIC will fully fund a pilot workforce training project set to begin in Pakistan in July 2025. The initial phase will train 10,000 youth, with plans to expand the programme to reach up to 100,000 participants. This initiative directly supports the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and is expected to extend to other BRI countries.

According to Chairman Nawab, the programme aims not only to equip the youth with high-quality vocational skills but also to connect them with job opportunities within BRI projects, especially with Chinese firms operating in the region. He emphasized that while Pakistan has an abundant youth population, the main challenge lies in providing them with relevant training that aligns with market demands.

Nawab further stressed that sustainability is embedded in the programme through strong demand for skilled human resources in the Global South. The collaboration with CIIC ensures industry-standard training and a dual focus on both skill development and employment placement.

Duan Xiaofei, General Manager of CIIC, expressed optimism about the partnership, viewing it as a meaningful step in advancing technical education and strengthening cultural and professional ties between the two nations. The initiative is poised to uplift Pakistan's youth by enabling access to sustainable livelihoods and driving regional economic growth.