Pakistan’s government has taken various initiatives to uplift underprivileged citizens and promote economic self-sufficiency. Among these welfare initiatives, the Ehsaas Hunar Program stands out as a skill development project aimed at empowering youth and marginalized communities. This program is a part of the broader Ehsaas framework, which encompasses poverty alleviation, financial inclusion, and human capital development. With a growing need for skilled labor, this program equips individuals with vocational and technical training, paving the way for better employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
What is the Ehsaas Hunar Program?
The Ehsaas Hunar Program is a government-run initiative under the umbrella of the Ehsaas Poverty Alleviation Program, launched by the Government of Pakistan. The term “Hunar” translates to “Skill,” which highlights the program’s core focus: to provide professional and technical training to youth, especially those from low-income backgrounds.
Launched with the collaboration of institutions such as NAVTTC (National Vocational and Technical Training Commission), the program aims to empower individuals by offering certified courses in various trades, from IT and digital marketing to plumbing, carpentry, sewing, and more. The training is often free or highly subsidized, targeting unemployed youth and those with little to no access to formal education.
How Ehsaas Hunar Program Works
The Ehsaas Hunar Program follows a structured approach to help individuals gain valuable skills and become employable or self-sufficient. Here’s how the process typically works:
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Registration & Application: Interested individuals can apply online or through Ehsaas registration centers. Eligibility is verified based on income levels and socio-economic status.
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Course Selection: Applicants are allowed to choose from various vocational and technical courses offered under the program.
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Training Centers: Participants are assigned to NAVTTC-approved training centers across Pakistan.
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Training Duration: Courses may last from 3 to 12 months, depending on the trade or skill selected.
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Certification: Upon successful completion, participants receive a government-recognized certificate.
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Job Placement / Entrepreneurship Support: Some programs assist trainees in finding jobs or offer support to start small businesses.
Features of Ehsaas Hunar Program [Completely Detailing]
The Ehsaas Hunar Program has a wide array of features that make it unique and effective:
1. Skill Diversity
Offers a broad spectrum of courses, including:
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Graphic Designing
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Auto Mechanics
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Beauty & Cosmetology
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Textile Designing
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Welding
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Mobile Repairing
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Web Development
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Tailoring & Stitching
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics (in advanced batches)
2. Nationwide Access
Training centers are located throughout Pakistan including:
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Punjab
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Sindh
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
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Balochistan
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Gilgit-Baltistan
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Azad Jammu & Kashmir
3. Free or Subsidized Education
Training is mostly free. The government bears the cost of trainers, infrastructure, and training materials. Some programs also provide stipends.
4. Gender Inclusivity
Special emphasis on female participation. Many centers run women-only classes, encouraging home-based or small-scale entrepreneurship.
5. Entrepreneurship Support
Graduates are offered micro-financing and guidance to start small businesses or home-based setups.
6. International Certification
Many courses follow international standards and may include industry-recognized certifications, enhancing global job prospects.
7. Digital Inclusion
Courses in digital marketing, freelancing, e-commerce, and programming prepare youth for remote jobs or gig economy platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.
Pros of Ehsaas Hunar Program [Use Table]
| Pros | Description |
|---|---|
| Free Skill Development | Cost-free access to professional and technical training. |
| Empowers Unemployed Youth | Reduces unemployment by making individuals job-ready. |
| Boosts Female Participation | Women-focused programs promote gender equality and inclusion. |
| Supports Entrepreneurship | Graduates receive help to start businesses, promoting self-reliance. |
| Nationwide Implementation | Centers across all provinces ensure equal access. |
| Recognized Certification | Certified training increases credibility and job placement. |
| Digital Literacy | Prepares youth for online earning and freelancing careers. |
| Cons | Description |
|---|---|
| Limited Awareness | Many eligible individuals are unaware of the program. |
| Infrastructure Gaps | Not all areas have well-equipped training centers. |
| Course Availability | Some advanced courses are limited to urban regions. |
| Job Placement Not Guaranteed | Certification does not always lead to immediate employment. |
| Language Barrier | Courses may not be available in regional languages. |
| Digital Divide | Lack of access to the internet hinders digital skills training in rural areas. |
| Program | Description | Offered By |
|---|---|---|
| Kamyab Jawan Program | Offers skill training and business loans to youth. | Government of Pakistan |
| DigiSkills.pk | Free online courses in freelancing, digital marketing, etc. | Ministry of IT & Virtual University |
| NAVTTC Hunarmand Program | Similar to Ehsaas Hunar, offers skills in 200+ trades. | NAVTTC |
| Coursera / Udemy | Paid and free courses in global skills like AI, Data Science, etc. | Online Education Platforms |
| TEVTA Programs | Vocational training and diplomas across various industries. | Punjab Government |
The Ehsaas Hunar Program is a forward-thinking initiative that aligns perfectly with Pakistan’s vision of empowering its youth and reducing poverty through skills. By offering cost-free vocational education, the program enhances employment opportunities and promotes entrepreneurship among the economically challenged sections of society.
However, to unlock its full potential, it is essential to address challenges like lack of awareness, regional inequality in access, and limited digital infrastructure. With improvements in outreach and more private-sector partnerships, the program can scale further and have a lasting impact on Pakistan’s socio-economic fabric.
In the end, skills are more powerful than just education, and the Ehsaas Hunar Program is proof that practical knowledge can be the strongest tool against poverty.
