In a transformative endeavor to bolster socio-economic prosperity, the European Union (EU) has unveiled two flagship programmes in Gilgit Baltistan. These initiatives, aimed at fostering skills development and promoting clean energy, signify a collaborative effort between the EU, the Government of Germany, and the Agha Khan Foundation.
By prioritizing empowerment and sustainability, these projects aspire to redefine the vocational training landscape and facilitate widespread access to renewable energy solutions to over 350,000 Gilgit Baltistan residents. Through its youth skill development programme, the EU and the Government of Germany have joined forces to transform the vocational training landscape in Gilgit-Baltistan.
This program provides dedicated support to selected Technical and Vocational education and Training (TVET) schools across the region, resulting in i) better equipped TVET schools, ii) better trained staff, and iii) curricula more aligned with labor market demands. The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, together with the British Council, is implementing this programme.
Under the EU-funded Energy Plus programme, rural communities in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral will gain improved access to clean energy. The programme aims to promote a sustainable transition to renewable energy through investments in energy generation, transmission and distribution. The Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan, Haji Gulbar Khan thanked the European Union and German government for their support and shared, “The skills development and clean green energy initiative will play a pivotal role in socio economic development of the region.
Gilgit-Baltistan has a unique geographical location with certain opportunities and challenges. We are sure, that these projects will contribute towards development of the region. He assured the government’s support and resolve to make both these projects a success which emanates from the highest level of authority within GB in the interest of people of the region.”—APP
