Lahore, October 2024 – The Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) has entered a groundbreaking partnership with the UK-based Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality (CTH) to offer internationally recognized certifications to PSDF trainees. In line with Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif's vision, CM Skilled Punjab Program, PSDF will train 2,500 individuals this year for international placement, potentially leading to significant economic benefits for both the trainees and Pakistan.

This pivotal agreement, signed by PSDF’s Chief Programs Officer, Asim Pasha, and CTH’s Director of Development, Asad Warraich, aims to position PSDF graduates for high-demand employment opportunities in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, particularly in the hospitality, tourism, and culinary industries.

Under this contract, PSDF trainees will receive globally accredited qualifications, enhancing their credibility and employability on a global scale. It could result in an annual economic impact of PKR 390 million in remittances (calculated at a conversion rate of 1 SR ≈ 78 PKR), thereby contributing to the country’s financial growth while improving the livelihoods of those placed.

Ahmed Khan, CEO of PSDF, highlighted the transformative nature of the collaboration, saying, “This partnership with CTH is a game-changer. It’s not just about equipping our trainees with skills; it’s about empowering them with globally recognized certifications that open doors to life-changing job opportunities abroad. We are confident that this will lead to a significant increase in international placements for our trainees, providing them with the potential to build sustainable, successful careers.”

With the introduction of global testing and certification standards, PSDF will implement qualifications in demand-driven trades to ensure that graduates are equipped with industry-relevant expertise. The first batch of internationally certified trainees is expected to secure placements by mid-2025, marking a milestone in PSDF’s commitment to bridging the skills gap in Pakistan.

CTH’s Director of Development, Asad Warraich, expressed his excitement for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to work with PSDF to provide world-class certifications to its talented trainees. This collaboration will not only help these individuals gain international recognition but also elevate their prospects in the global job market. We see this as an opportunity to empower Pakistani youth and ensure they are ready to compete for high-value roles across the GCC.”