Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the government to step up efforts to create employment opportunities for young Pakistanis, with special attention to women and youth in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The directive was issued during a meeting in Islamabad on August 18 to review implementation of the National Youth Employment Policy. The prime minister said progress would now be reviewed every month and stressed that providing dignified employment to skilled young people is a government priority.

Shehbaz directed federal ministries and relevant institutions to work together on a coordinated employment strategy and expand skills training to prepare young people, particularly women, for emerging job opportunities.

The government has also introduced registration reforms at the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to better match Pakistan’s workforce with local and international labour demand.

NAVTTC is focusing on internationally recognized certifications and language training to improve access to overseas jobs. Training programs are also being adjusted according to market requirements.

The government is using the Digital Youth Hub as a central platform for information on employment opportunities in Pakistan and abroad. Youth Development Cells are also being established at educational institutions to provide career guidance and information on jobs and skills programs.

The prime minister further ordered an awareness campaign to inform young people about opportunities and benefits available under the National Youth Employment Policy.

Chairperson of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood briefed the meeting on progress made so far.