The Government of Punjab has taken a major step toward youth empowerment and employment generation with the launch of the Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card. This innovative initiative is designed to support skilled young individuals by providing them with opportunities to secure employment, both within Pakistan and abroad. Approved under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the program reflects a long-term vision of building a skilled, competitive, and globally employable workforce.
At a time when unemployment and underemployment remain serious challenges for young people, especially skilled graduates, the Free Parwaz Card aims to bridge the gap between training and real job opportunities. The initiative strengthens Punjab’s commitment to skill development, workforce mobility, and economic growth.
Punjab Government’s Vision for Skilled Youth
The Free Parwaz Card initiative is part of a broader strategy led by the Punjab government to promote technical education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship. During a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the performance of the Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Department was reviewed in detail. Officials shared impressive progress made under ongoing skill development programs.
One of the flagship efforts, the Hunarmand Program, has already trained more than 180,000 young individuals in a short period. These training programs focus on practical, market-relevant skills that directly connect trainees with employment opportunities.
Out of the total trained youth, over 75,000 individuals have secured local employment, while 15,000 skilled workers have successfully obtained jobs abroad. This outcome demonstrates that the government’s approach is not limited to training alone but is effectively translating skills into real livelihoods.
Strengthening the Technical Training Ecosystem
Punjab’s technical education system has played a vital role in preparing youth for the job market. Institutions such as TEVTA (Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority) and the Punjab Vocational Training Council (PVTC) have significantly contributed to workforce development.
According to official figures, more than 27,500 TEVTA graduates and 45,000 PVTC trainees have entered the workforce. These numbers highlight the growing trust of employers in Punjab’s vocational training institutions and the effectiveness of skills-based education.
The Free Parwaz Card builds upon this strong foundation by offering additional support to skilled individuals who wish to explore international employment opportunities.
What Is the Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card?
The Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card is a government-backed support program aimed at helping skilled youth pursue overseas employment. Many trained individuals face financial and procedural barriers when trying to work abroad. These may include certification costs, documentation requirements, or difficulties in connecting with verified employers.
The Parwaz Card addresses these challenges by providing structured assistance, which may include:
- Support for skill certification and verification
- Job linkage with international employers
- Guidance on legal and safe overseas employment pathways
- Financial facilitation related to the employment process
By reducing these obstacles, the program enables skilled workers to compete in the global job market with confidence.
Creating Global Opportunities for Punjab’s Youth
One of the key objectives of the Free Parwaz Card is to create a direct bridge between local talent and international labor markets. Skilled workers from Punjab are in demand across various sectors, including construction, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and technical services.
Through this initiative, the Punjab government aims to ensure that overseas employment is not limited to a privileged few. Instead, it seeks to provide equal opportunities to deserving and skilled individuals, regardless of their financial background.
This approach not only benefits the youth but also strengthens Pakistan’s economy through increased remittances and global workforce participation.
Industrial Survey for Market-Relevant Skills
To further align training programs with real market needs, the Punjab government has approved a comprehensive industrial survey across the province. The purpose of this survey is to identify:
- Current and future skill demands
- Emerging industries and sectors
- Regional employment trends
- Gaps between training and industry requirements
The findings of this survey will help authorities update curricula, introduce new courses, and ensure that training institutions prepare students for jobs that actually exist in the market.
This data-driven approach ensures that skill development initiatives remain relevant, practical, and sustainable.
Rising Enrollment in Technical Education
The government’s focus on skills has resulted in a significant increase in technical education enrollment. Officials report that enrollments have risen by over 21% compared to the previous five years. This growth indicates a positive shift in youth preferences toward skill-based education rather than relying solely on traditional academic pathways.
Such a trend is essential for addressing unemployment and meeting the needs of modern industries, both locally and internationally.
Empowering Women Through Digital Skills
Alongside the Free Parwaz Card, the Punjab government has launched the “Main Digital” initiative, a landmark program focused on women’s empowerment through technology. Under this initiative, Rs. 1 billion has been allocated to train 3,000 rural women in information technology and digital skills.
The first phase of the program will begin in cities such as Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Lodhran, and Faisalabad. By April 2026, the initiative aims to empower 2,100 women with employable digital skills.
This program supports women’s economic participation, enabling them to work remotely, freelance, or secure IT-related jobs without leaving their communities.
Long-Term Impact on Punjab’s Economy
The combined impact of the Free Parwaz Card, industrial surveys, expanded technical training, and women-focused digital initiatives is expected to transform Punjab’s economic landscape. A skilled and employed workforce contributes to:
- Reduced unemployment and poverty
- Increased productivity
- Higher foreign remittances
- Stronger global reputation for Pakistani talent
By focusing on practical solutions rather than short-term measures, the Punjab government is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.
Conclusion
The Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card represents a forward-looking initiative that directly addresses the challenges faced by skilled youth in Punjab. By connecting training with real employment opportunities, especially at the international level, the program empowers young individuals to build stable and successful careers.
Combined with increased technical education enrollment, industry-aligned training, and targeted programs for women, this initiative highlights Punjab’s commitment to inclusive growth and workforce development. As these programs continue to expand, they have the potential to turn Punjab’s skilled youth into a powerful driver of economic progress for Pakistan.
FAQs
What is the Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card?
The Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card is a Punjab government initiative designed to help skilled youth access local and international employment opportunities through training support and job facilitation.
Who is eligible for the Free Parwaz Card?
Skilled youth who have completed technical or vocational training from recognized institutions in Punjab are eligible. Priority is given to job-ready individuals seeking employment opportunities.
Does the Parwaz Card support overseas employment?
Yes, the program focuses on linking skilled workers with verified international employers while providing guidance, certification support, and facilitation for overseas jobs.
Is the Maryam Nawaz Free Parwaz Card free?
Yes, the program is fully supported by the Punjab government and does not charge eligible candidates for participation.
How does this program benefit Pakistan’s economy?
By enabling skilled youth to secure employment locally and abroad, the program increases productivity, reduces unemployment, and boosts foreign remittances.