The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) and the Sindh Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (STEVTA) have agreed to enhance collaboration to develop a skilled workforce in partnership with the industrial sector. STEVTA Chairman Junaid Buland, Special Assistant to CM Sindh, announced plans to shut down 350 non-functional institutions while working with industries to provide youth vocational training and employment opportunities.
Speaking at a meeting with industrialists during his visit to KATI, Junaid Buland stated that out of the 660 private educational institutions operating in Sindh, 350 are inactive or non-functional and will be shut down. Two hundred fifty-eight institutions operate under STEVTA’s supervision, and 30 more are planned. STEVTA aims to provide young people with professional training and job opportunities by fostering cooperation with KATI.
KATI President Junaid Naqi, Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan, KATI Vice President Tariq Hussain, Standing Committee Chairman Saleemuddin, Razzak Hashim Paracha, senior STEVTA officials, and many industrialists attended the event.
Junaid Buland emphasized STEVTA’s commitment to supporting public-private partnerships and highlighted the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leadership’s directives to take all possible steps for workforce development. He stressed the need for industry collaboration to ensure students receive training aligned with industry demands. To achieve this, STEVTA is also working on hiring expert instructors and vocational specialists.
KATI President Junaid Naqi called for a review of the Apprenticeship Act 2023, citing its flawed implementation. He explained that under the law, 10% of the industrial workforce must consist of STEVTA graduates or certified professionals. However, the limited availability of such trained individuals has created difficulties for industries. He pointed out that Pakistan has no talent shortage, but outdated curricula and a lack of vocational training opportunities prevent young professionals from meeting industry requirements.
Naqi stressed the need for vocational training institutions to adopt modern, industry-relevant curricula. He also urged the establishment of training centers under public-private partnerships to ensure better skill development.
Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan addressed the event and emphasized the importance of focusing on three key sectors: health, education, and the economy. He stated that a healthy workforce performs better, education enhances awareness and skill development, and economic strength depends on improvements in both health and education. He emphasized that prioritizing these areas could lead Pakistan toward significant progress.
Standing Committee Chairman Saleemuddin noted that internship opportunities for students in Karachi’s industrial sector are limited. Except for a few major organizations, most students struggle to find placements. He called for a joint strategy between KATI and STEVTA to address this issue. He further highlighted that many young professionals entering the industry lack the experience and technical skills required to operate industrial machinery.
