Ms. Farah Naz Akbar Highlights Youth Empowerment Through Skills on World Youth Skills Day at NAVTTC

Ms. Farah Naz Akbar Highlights Youth Empowerment Through Skills on World Youth Skills Day at NAVTTC

Islamabad: Ms. Farah Naz Akbar, Parliamentary Secretary for Federal Education and Professional Training, marked World Youth Skills Day with a special visit to the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC). During her visit, she delivered an inspiring address underscoring the critical role of vocational education in shaping Pakistan’s future and empowering its youth.

Welcomed warmly by NAVTTC officials, Ms. Akbar acknowledged the leadership of Federal Minister Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and the efforts of the NAVTTC team in organizing the event. In her speech, she praised NAVTTC’s inclusive and collaborative model, which brings together provincial TEVTAs and other institutions to create unified, nationwide training initiatives.

Ms. Akbar emphasized the significance of officially celebrating World Youth Skills Day, calling it a major milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward recognizing the value of skilled professionals. She noted that while the country has long honored roles like teachers and parents through dedicated days, this recognition of skills marks a cultural shift toward appreciating hands-on expertise and technical contribution.

With over 65% of the population under the age of 30, she stressed that Pakistan’s future depends on how effectively it can equip its youth with practical abilities. Ms. Akbar commended NAVTTC for training more than 650,000 young people so far, noting that these individuals are not only helping their families and communities but are also finding demand for their skills in international markets.

During her visit, Ms. Akbar toured several NAVTTC departments and interacted with trainers and trainees from various fields, including plumbing, beauty, and electrical work. She also distributed certificates to graduates, congratulating them on their achievements and encouraging them to use their skills for personal growth and national progress.

Concluding her remarks, she called for continued investment in human capital, stating that youth empowerment through skills is essential for building a stronger, more prosperous, and globally respected Pakistan.