Senator Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani addressed the annual convocation of the College of Tourism and Hotel Management South Punjab in Multan, stressing that Youth Skills must match academic qualifications to create real opportunities for Pakistan’s young population. He praised graduating students for their determination and highlighted that practical competence is essential in today’s competitive national and international environment.
Gilani paid tribute to teachers and parents for their guidance and sacrifice, noting that students reached this milestone because of sustained support. He urged graduates to use their training to bring recognition to their families, South Punjab and Pakistan on the global stage, stressing that Youth Skills can open doors to international careers and entrepreneurship.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s tourism potential, Gilani described the country as blessed with natural beauty, ancient heritage and distinctive culture. He singled out Multan as a living city with a 5,000-year-old history and urged young professionals to promote local attractions, northern areas, Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan so these destinations gain wider international visibility through skilled hospitality and tourism services.
Drawing on his experience as Federal Minister for Tourism, he emphasized how countries with limited natural wealth have built strong economies through tourism. He recounted a recent meeting with the Ambassador of Italy and said that thousands of job opportunities exist for those with the right skills, underscoring that expanding Youth Skills is a direct path to employment.
Gilani pointed to rising global demand for skilled manpower and highlighted the demographic advantage that Pakistan enjoys, with nearly sixty percent of the population being young. Strengthening Youth Skills, he argued, will accelerate development and economic stability if state institutions and welfare programmes coordinate effectively.
To that end, he proposed enhanced collaboration between the Benazir Income Support Programme, Bait-ul-Mal and relevant ministries with educational institutions to scale up vocational training and create more skilled professionals across regions. He also noted vast opportunities in Information Technology in markets such as the European Union, Germany and the United States, encouraging youth to capitalise on remote work and exportable services.
Congratulating the institution’s administration, faculty, parents and graduates, Gilani extended his best wishes for their future careers. He also welcomed the government’s recent reduction in petroleum prices and expressed hope that continued economic improvements and Pakistan’s active diplomatic role would further support job creation and regional peace.
