Interest-Free Funding Program Aims to Support Skilled Youth
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the province’s first-ever Parwaz Card programme. The initiative is designed to support skilled youth through interest-free financial assistance. Under the scheme, eligible young individuals will receive loans of up to Rs300,000.
The programme was officially launched on Wednesday. It reflects the provincial government’s focus on youth empowerment and employment generation. The Parwaz Card aims to remove financial barriers faced by young professionals after completing vocational training.
Alongside the Parwaz Card, the government also introduced supporting initiatives. These include the “Creative Hand, Career Path” programme and the “Skill Development Portal.” These platforms are designed to improve access to vocational training and job placement opportunities across Punjab.
The government believes these initiatives will strengthen the link between skills training and real employment outcomes. The focus remains on practical skills and market-driven professions.
Youth Training Success and Inclusive Opportunities Highlighted
During the launch ceremony, Maryam Nawaz highlighted Punjab’s progress in technical education. She revealed that 250,000 young people have completed vocational training courses. Out of these, more than 114,000 secured jobs within Pakistan. Another 33,000 found employment abroad.
The chief minister met 90 students who recently completed training in various trades. These included electricians, technicians, and religious scholars. She praised their dedication and commitment to skill development.
Maryam Nawaz also interacted with transgender students enrolled in vocational programmes. They thanked her for providing equal opportunities and recognition. The chief minister said inclusivity is a key part of the government’s vision.
She stressed that investing in youth is a national priority. According to her, the state must remove every obstacle that limits young people’s potential. She said government resources should be directed toward empowering the next generation.
“The state is like a mother,” she said. “Every obstacle in the way of our children should be removed.”
Employment Linkages, Overseas Support, and AI Education
The Parwaz Card programme aims to connect skilled graduates with job opportunities. These opportunities include local employment and overseas placements. Key sectors include e-commerce, information technology, construction, and technical trades.
Trades such as welding, electrical wiring, plumbing, and tile fixing are part of the programme. The government plans to support youth seeking work abroad without relying on agents or middlemen. Financial assistance will be provided directly to Parwaz Card holders.
Maryam Nawaz said Pakistan has a highly skilled workforce. The government wants youth to earn dignified incomes at home and overseas. She confirmed that every skilled youth going abroad under the scheme will receive up to Rs300,000 in support.
The chief minister also emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence. She announced that AI education will be made mandatory in schools. The government will also provide scholarships, laptops, and Chromebooks to students.
She added that trained youth will be monitored and supported. The goal is to ensure skills lead to actual employment. The government will track progress and provide guidance where needed.
In her concluding remarks, Maryam Nawaz urged young Pakistanis to focus on positive contributions. She advised them to avoid anti-state activities and work toward national development.
The Parwaz Card is expected to play a key role in shaping Punjab’s skilled workforce. Officials believe the programme will boost employment and economic growth.
