President Zardari Launches Benazir Hunarmand Programme to Empower Pakistan’s Skilled Youth

President Asif Ali Zardari officially launched the Benazir Hunarmand Programme at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Saturday, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to youth empowerment through technical training, education, and workforce development.

During the ceremony, President Zardari emphasized the importance of education and modern skills development as key pillars for national progress. He reiterated that every household in Pakistan must be equipped with tools for learning and opportunity, carrying forward the legacy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.

He underlined that the programme builds on the foundation of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), which he initiated during his previous presidency and which continues to be Pakistan’s largest social protection framework. The president also paid tribute to former finance minister Naveed Qamar for his contributions to BISP’s success.

Highlighting the growing demand for skilled labor in international markets, President Zardari called for equipping Pakistani youth with technical, vocational, and foreign language skills. He identified nursing as a high-potential profession and urged that priority training be given to this field to tap into global employment opportunities.

He also emphasized that the youth must be prepared to meet both domestic and global labor demands, making workforce readiness and economic inclusion national priorities.

Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of BISP, said the Benazir Hunarmand Programme will provide demand-driven, practical training using BISP’s robust data system to identify and reach eligible beneficiaries. She described the initiative as a transformation tool that promotes dignity, inclusion, and self-reliance, especially among women.

Rubina Khalid also thanked international partners, especially the German government, for their continuous support in strengthening Pakistan’s social development ecosystem.

The launch event coincided with Benazir Bhutto’s birth anniversary, adding symbolic significance to the occasion. President Zardari, joined by First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, described the day as one of both pride and remembrance. A celebratory cake-cutting marked the occasion in honor of the late leader’s enduring legacy.

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