Many educational researchers have opined that merely studying does not yield any good if it has led to no career advancement. Vocational education is one such portfolio that enables its learners to progress in their lives after course completion.
Despite tall claims by the various governments of Pakistan about having empowered the youth through a vocational education portfolio, the platform is still mired in several challenges. It is like blood in the veins of the educated manpower of this community of nations.
Education that delivers is said to be the most beneficial learning for youth. In simple words, vocational education can be decoded as training for a specific occupation in agriculture, trade, or industry through a combination of theoretical teaching and practical experience.
In the 21st century, the developed nations have uplifted the downtrodden strata of their society through the provision of vocational and technical training, while the third-world countries are still following the colonial type of learning. The importance of vocational training cannot be exaggerated.
Current Analysis of Vocational Training and its Earning Potential in Pakistan
While looking through the current scenario, we can feel that the platform of vocational training has changed the labor dynamics of Pakistan. In the following paragraphs, we shall dissect the potential vocational training courses along with their earning potential:
Pakistan Technical and Vocational Education and Training
It is working with private sector organizations for the widespread success of vocational and technical education. By joining you will have equitable access to quality TVET and enhanced employability. You will be imparted demand-driven skills and training.
Also, it provides access to international-level training. The students certified from here earn a handsome amount of income in industries or their related portfolios. The courses offered are:
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National Vocational and Technical Training Commission
The purpose of training at NAVTTC is to equip young people with market-driven conventional and high-tech skills required for career progression with an aim to bring the capacity of youth to par with international standards. It is home to thousands of students who learn technical skills post-matric and many who find jobs through its vast networking.
Prime Minister’s Youth Skill Development Program
It was initiated to strengthen the quality of technical and vocational education and training. The purpose is to equip the youth with market-driven conventional and high-tech skills required for career progression. PMYSDP is the vehicle of change to empower youth and harness their potential for human development and the transformation of the future of Pakistan.
TEVTA
TEVTA focuses more on quality skill education than quantity. There has been a rising number of students in numerous disciplines, which is evidence of tremendous efforts by TEVTA management and faculty to maintain skill and competency standards.
Top Vocational Skills and Careers in Pakistan
Following is a list of the top vocational skills and careers in Pakistan:
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Main Features of Vocational Training
Let’s have a look at the main features of vocational training:
Is vocational training for you?
Here are some key points to look at to decide whether a vocational school is right for you:
Vocational Schools are Low Cost
The low cost of a vocational school is because most of the programs are government-funded or led by non-profit organizations.
Vocational Courses As An Alternative to Studies
Vocational courses offer you an alternative to formal educational institutes and classes. The objective is that students should not skip students and continue building their educational careers.
Vocational Training May Increase Your On-Job Satisfaction
The gist of the bullet is that those who invest their young years practically doing what they will eventually do at their workplace enjoy more long-term happiness.
Overcoming the Challenges Present in Pakistan Regarding Technical Education and Turning Them into Opportunities
The sad reality is that Pakistan has been unable to fully harness the opportunities due to several challenges. Following are the suggestions to overcome these challenges:
Provision of the Required Infrastructure
The government of Pakistan should build more technical institutions in far-flung areas. These institutions should be provided with enough facilities to cater to the needs of students.
Nexus Between Market and Training
Similarly, a connection needs to be built between the industries and training institutions so as to impart in the youth market required skills.
Jobs Should be Ensured After the Completion
In the same way, the government should ensure that the students who have completed their program should be provided an opportunity to serve.
Use of Technology
Much of the same applies to this point. The vocational institutions in Pakistan are devoid of proper technological infrastructure. Therefore, the government should ensure the availability of technology in institutions.
Trained and Skilled Staff
Likewise, the government should ensure that all the trainers present in these institutes have enough of the required demands.
Training As Per International Standards
Last but not least the government should ensure that the training and the respective learning in these institutes are according to international standards and demands. They should be exposed to international conditions.
Wrapping Up
To sum up, we can deduce that technical and vocational training has been playing a crucial role in the job market of Pakistan. It has the potential to uplift many young girls and boys. The courses being provided in these institutions are shorter and more feasible than formal education.
The need of the hour is that these institutions should be upgraded to advanced levels to maximize their potential. It is the right time to overcome the challenges and convert them into opportunities.