BISP Chairperson Reviews Skill Development Partnership with Pak-Austria Institute, Haripur

Independent Report
HARIPUR: Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, visited the Pak-Austria Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (PAF-IAST) in Haripur on January 27, 2026, to explore collaboration opportunities for skill development under the Benazir Hunarmand Program (BHP). The initiative aims to empower youth and provide practical skills to BISP beneficiaries and their family members.
Senator Khalid was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mujahid, Rector PAF-IAST, and senior management, who briefed her on the institute’s academic structure, modern training facilities, and industry-linked education model. The Chairperson also toured key facilities, including laboratories and hostels, to assess the institutional capacity for implementing skill development programs effectively.
While appreciating the presentation, Senator Khalid emphasized the importance of training and diploma programs aligned with the Benazir Hunarmand Program. She said, “Empowering Pakistan’s youth through skill development transforms them into national assets. Skills are the foundation of dignity, self-reliance, and sustainable livelihoods,” adding that a value-chain approach integrating ethics and employability skills is essential for long-term success.
Ms. Zainab Azmat, Head of the Human Capital Development Office at PAF-IAST, informed the Chairperson that the institute offers 12 training and 4 diploma programs in hospitality, health, and IT, certified by City & Guilds (UK), with integrated language and soft skills components.
Both BISP and PAF-IAST agreed to explore the design of specialized skill courses tailored for BISP beneficiaries under the Benazir Hunarmand Program. The meeting was also attended by DG BISP KP, Mr. Alaf Jan Afridi, and members of the Benazir Hunarmand Program team.
The visit marks a significant step toward strengthening partnerships between BISP and leading technical institutions to promote youth empowerment, inclusive human capital development, and sustainable livelihoods across Pakistan.