By Ahmed Khan
Industrialists and experts are raising alarms that Sindh’s push for industrial growth could be in trouble unless the province urgently reforms its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system.
Without these changes, they warn, the province might face a shortage of skilled workers, outdated training programs, and poor connections between schools and industries.
Efforts to Improve Vocational Education in Sindh
In recent years, the Sindh government has made efforts to improve vocational education. The Middle Tech Initiative was introduced to teach technical courses in about 300 middle schools, reaching nearly 65,000 students.
These courses cover a wide range of topics, including agriculture, electrical trades, graphic design, hotel management, Internet of Things (IoT), media production, plumbing, and tourism. This initiative is designed to provide students with practical skills early on.
The Sindh Technical Education & Vocational Training Authority (STEVTA) is the main body responsible for overseeing vocational education in the province.
It aims to build a skilled workforce to meet both local and international demands. To achieve this, STEVTA is working on upgrading infrastructure, using modern teaching methods, and creating stronger links between training centers and industries.
Additionally, the TVET Sector Support Programme (TVET SSP) has started pilot projects offering training that aligns more closely with the needs of employers.
Industrialists’ Concerns About the Current Vocational System
However, industrialists argue that the system is still far from what’s needed. Many graduates from TVET institutes lack the skills required by modern industries.
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) particularly feel the impact, pointing out issues like outdated training programs, limited access to modern technologies, and low-quality teaching.
Cultural Barriers and Lack of Resources for Technical Education
The problem is also cultural. Technical education is still often seen as a less prestigious option than a university degree, especially among rural youth and women.
In several remote districts of Sindh, there are few educational institutions or they lack the necessary resources.
The Need for Skilled Workers to Drive Sindh’s Industrialization
“Today, industrialization is about more than just steel and textiles,” Nadeem said. “It also includes high-tech manufacturing, renewable energy, agro-processing, and services.
Sindh has natural advantages, such as ports in Karachi, agriculture in the interior, and tourism potential, but these sectors need skilled workers like technicians, electricians, machine operators, solar panel installers, and digital design experts. Without trained workers, factories struggle with low productivity, costly maintenance, and poor product quality.”
SMEs, which are the backbone of Sindh’s economy, often struggle with low productivity and global competitiveness because of an unskilled workforce and outdated machinery.
Experts believe that improving technical education could boost industrial performance and help local businesses compete both in Pakistan and abroad.
Recommendations for Improving Vocational Education in Sindh
Rashid Soomro, an economic expert, has recommended creating joint forums where business leaders, industry groups, and training centers can work together to update course content, create internships and apprenticeships, and provide government incentives to companies that offer workplace training.
He also suggested upgrading labs and workshops, ensuring trainers have real-world experience, and expanding vocational centers in rural areas.
Soomro highlighted the need for programs that are inclusive of women and minority groups, offering transport, stipends, and flexible schedules to encourage participation.
“Industrialization is not just about building factories or attracting investment,” Soomro said. “It’s about ensuring that people have the skills, opportunities, and environment to engage in meaningful work.”
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