China to train workforce in Pakistan with initially a batch of 10,000 youth

ISLAMABAD  –  In a significant step towards fostering cooperation between Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to strengthen collaboration in workforce training, vocational education, and capacity building.

The agreement, signed in Beijing by Qaiser Nawab, Chairman of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), and Duan Xiaofei, General Manager of CIIC International Education Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd., marks a major step towards addressing youth unemployment and skill gaps in the region.

Speaking to Gwadar Pro, the Chairman BRISD stated that CIIC International Education Technology will fund the workforce training project, which will begin in Pakistan in July 2025 with an initial batch of 10,000 youth, eventually expanding to 100,000.

“While the pilot phase starts in Pakistan, the initiative aims to extend across all Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries to support youth employment and skills development.

The MoU highlights collaboration in vocational training, skills certification, and industry-academia partnerships, particularly to support CPEC and regional knowledge sharing,” he said.

Nawab further highlighted that the sustainability of this initiative is ensured due to the significant demand for young human resources (HR), especially in Pakistan and the broader Global South, including BRI countries. Pakistan, with its vibrant and growing youth population, provides an ideal foundation for such a program.

The key challenge he mentioned is not the availability of young talent but rather providing them with the right training and skills.

“This is where our partnership with CIIC in China becomes vital. CIIC has the expertise and resources to deliver high-quality vocational training that meets industry standards,” he added.

Regarding the mechanisms in place to ensure long-term impact he stated, “we are not only focusing on training but also creating job placement opportunities.

After completing the training, participants will have access to employment opportunities in BRI projects, particularly with Chinese companies operating across BRI countries, including those involved in the CPEC projects.”

“This dual approach of training and employment placement ensures that the program has a lasting, positive impact on the youth, helping them secure sustainable livelihoods and contributing to economic growth in the region,” he added.

Duan Xiaofei, General Manager of CIIC International Education Technology, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a crucial step in advancing technical education and fostering stronger cultural and professional ties between China and Pakistan.