During the current fiscal some 56,960 youths are being trained in education and literacy, health, information technology, women development and other provincial departments under Phase-II of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Youth Development Programme (SBBYDP). The trainees would also be paid monthly stipend, out of total approved cost of Rs 2244.484 million.
The major initiative was aimed at addressing unemployment in the province, said Advisor to Chief Minister, Sharmila Farooqi at an interactive workshop discussing issues related to youth and the remedial measures adopted by the government. The workshop was organised by Young Social Reformers (YSR) at a local hotel. Provincial IT Minister, Raza Haroon also participated the workshop and spelled out details of the various initiatives taken for the youths of the province.
Sharmila pointed out that under Phase-I (2008-09) training was provided to 54,104 youths and paid stipend with an allocation of Rs 2454.763 million. After completion of training some 30 percent of youths were successful in obtaining jobs in government departments and with private sector, she said.
"Youths are backbone of this country and they can play a vital and prominent role in progress and prosperity", she said and added that since youths are more courageous and dedicated that is why their small inspirational efforts can result in revolutionised change in our society" she observed.
Sharmila also highlighted the reconciliation processes initiated by President Asif Ali Zardari for strengthening democracy and democratic institutions in the country. All political parties and specially coalition partners have been taken on board to finalise major issues which depicts the seriousness and sincerity of PPP government towards a true democracy," she added.