Pakistan’s Technical Education System Needs Industry Alignment, Says KATI President

Karachi: President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Junaid Naqi, has called for Pakistan’s technical education system to be realigned with industry requirements. In a recent meeting with Sindh Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (STEVTA) Managing Director Tariq Manzoor, Naqi underscored the importance of a skilled workforce for the progress of the country’s industrial sector.

Naqi emphasized that entrepreneurship should be integrated into the curriculum to enable young people to create their own employment opportunities rather than waiting for jobs. He stated, “The primary goal of technical education should be to empower youth with self-reliance, not just to make them job-seekers.” Naqi also proposed collaboration between STEVTA, KATI, and other industrial bodies to modernize vocational training and update curricula in line with industry needs. Additionally, he suggested setting up Skill Hubs in every industrial zone for specialized skills training.

STEVTA Managing Director Tariq Manzoor addressed KATI members, stating that the authority aims to not only impart skills but also empower young individuals. He announced plans for STEVTA to work closely with the private sector to ensure that technical training aligns with industrial demands. “We want every STEVTA institution to be linked with industry so that students graduate with practical skills, ready to either secure employment or launch their own businesses,” Manzoor said. He highlighted ongoing efforts to expand technical institutions through public-private partnerships.

Saleemuddin, Chairman of KATI’s Standing Committee on Technical Education and Vocational Training, emphasized the need to connect more educational institutions in Korangi and other industrial zones with STEVTA’s model institutes. Senior Vice President Ijaz Sheikh, along with KATI members Ehteshamuddin and Maheen Salman, also stressed the importance of improving training quality and enhancing instructor skills.

The meeting featured in-depth discussions on fortifying technical education, developing a skilled workforce, expanding internship opportunities, and promoting entrepreneurship throughout Sindh.