Pakistan, being the fifth most populous country with two-thirds of its population under 30, presents a key opportunity to leverage the youth bulge through upskilling. Failure to do so can lead to significant economic challenges. Recognizing the importance of continuous learning and skill enhancement for career advancement in a fast-evolving professional landscape, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (AKEPB) has conducted several comprehensive training initiatives in 2024. These initiatives aim to equip Jamati members with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel, fostering both professional and personal growth.

In line with the global celebration of World Youth Skills Day, these efforts underscore the critical role of skill development in empowering young people to navigate and succeed in today's dynamic world. World Youth Skills Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to invest in youth skills development, and AKEPB's initiatives are a testament to Pakistan's commitment to this cause.

The Nursing Service Training Programme kicked off the year to improve the skills, knowledge, and competence of nursing professionals. The programme aimed to prepare individuals to face the increasing requirements in healthcare effectively by emphasizing critical areas of nursing. This all-inclusive programme was designed to lead candidates into the nursing profession as well as boost their professional growth and assist them in advancing their careers.

Following closely, AKEPB launched the Faysal Bank Ambassador Programme, impacting 99 candidates. Its main goal was to groom candidates for the interview process by teaching them how to improve their interviewing techniques with comprehensive strategies in authentic situations, as well as provide them with a glimpse of the bank’s background and functionality. The programme’s target was to increase a candidate’s confidence and explain the process of selecting new employees.

The Aga Khan Economic Planning Board organized the impactful 2 Shades Recruitment Drive and Customer Service Representative Programme, which benefited 100 participants. This dual-purpose event provided an in-depth introduction to the 2 Shades company, enhancing awareness of its operations and the qualities it seeks in potential employees. It aimed to identify talented individuals who align with the company’s values, streamlining the recruitment process by guiding candidates through online applications and employee image development. Additionally, the programme emphasized the importance of top-notch service provision and strong communication skills, equipping participants with the tools needed for exceptional customer service.

AKEPB signed an MoU with Tech Valley with the aim of providing participants with an inclusive comprehension of the Google Career Certificate (GCC) programme and the many courses it offers. Benefitting 1,000 Jamati members throughout various regions of Pakistan, the programme equipped individuals develop professionally in their journey through the Google Career Certificate programme by keeping them well-informed and motivated.

The Skill Orientation Session – Welding, as part of the aftermath from the last training session, presented 46 individuals on how they could access the necessary information concerning the welding training programme, which outlined its scope, duration, and commencement schedules and also responded to individual questions or concerns.

These training programmes mirror a broad professional development strategy that caters to different industries and skill set needs. AKEPB’s goal of implementing such programmes throughout Pakistan is to provide tailored training sessions so that individuals gain potential capabilities essential for their professions and their futures.