The Punjab government has decided to launch the Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card to support skilled youth seeking job opportunities abroad. The decision came during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore. The meeting focused on the performance and future plans of the Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Department. Officials also shared updates on technical training programs and their employment impact.
During the briefing, it was revealed that over 180,000 youth have completed training under the skills program in recent months. More than 75,000 individuals secured jobs locally, while 15,000 found employment in international companies. Additionally, over 27,500 youth trained by TEVTA and 45,000 from the Punjab Vocational Training Council are now employed. This marks a notable success in youth empowerment and vocational uplift.
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The meeting also reported a 21% increase in technical training enrollment compared to the last five years. To align with current industrial needs, the government will conduct a new industry survey. As part of this broader plan, the Free Parwaz Card will help skilled individuals travel abroad for job placements, easing financial burdens related to international employment processes.
Another key initiative under discussion was the “Main Digital” program targeting rural women. The government has allocated Rs 1 billion to train 3,000 rural women in IT skills. In the first phase, women from Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Lodhran, and Faisalabad will receive digital training. By April 1, 2026, the government aims to train 2,100 women, helping them enter the digital workforce.
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Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of linking skills with employment. She reaffirmed her government’s commitment to empowering youth and women. These new initiatives, including the Free Parwaz Card, aim to boost employment, support industrial growth, and strengthen Punjab’s economy through skilled human capital.