Few figures stand out as dynamically and enthusiastically as Gulmina Bilal Ahmed, the Chairperson of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) in technical and vocational education in Pakistan. With a robust background as a psychologist and extensive experience in governance and civic education, Gulmina has seamlessly integrated her diverse expertise to spearhead initiatives that are not only innovative but also inclusive. Her career trajectory is a testament to her unwavering commitment to societal betterment, having worked across various sectors and countries to promote citizenship values, governance, and skill-building. Gulmina’s pioneering efforts at NAVTTC have brought significant changes, especially in advocating for the inclusion of women and transgender individuals in technical vocational education. Programs like #SheFixes, designed to empower women by training them in traditionally male-dominated fields such as plumbing and electrical work, have received positive responses, especially from women and transgenders. Her approach to education is holistic, emphasizing the importance of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. By introducing concepts like flipped classrooms and hybrid learning models, NAVTTC is reshaping how technical education is delivered, making it more engaging and effective. Furthermore,the organization’s focus on lifelong learning ensures that individuals can continue to develop their skills and adapt to the evolving job market. One of NAVTTC’s notable achievements under Gulmina’s tenure is the inclusion of marginalized groups in its programs. The organization has made significant strides in enrolling women, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities in technical and vocational courses. This approach provides these groups with essential skills and empowers them to contribute to economic growth and societal development.
In Balochistan, for instance, NAVTTC has enrolled 9,000 students, including women and transgender individuals, showcasing its commitment to gender equality and social inclusion. Such initiatives are crucial in breaking down cultural and economic barriers, promoting self-reliance, and ensuring equal participation in the workforce. Established in 2005 NAVTTC serves as the central regulatory and management authority for Pakistan’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector under the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training. With their vision of “Skills for Employability, Skills for All,” the organization is dedicated to providing strategic direction and support to both public and private institutions. Their mission is to foster an environment that promotes effective skills development training, ultimately aiming to uplift Pakistan’s social and economic standing. NAVTTC’s functions ensure a comprehensive approach to TVET reform, from formulating national policies and qualifications frameworks to designing and implementing targeted skill programs that bridge the gap between industry demand and available skilled labour. They also play a vital role in quality assurance through accreditation and certification processes, actively developing skill standards and curricula, and fostering public-private partnerships to strengthen the TVET ecosystem. Through collaboration, NAVTTC developed a National Skills Strategy (NSS) with input from industry leaders, educators, policymakers, and international partners. This comprehensive plan serves as a blueprint for modernizing the TVET system. Following NSS recommendations, NAVTTC has implemented initiatives like the National Vocational Qualification Framework (NVQF), a national teacher qualification system, and the creation of skill standards and curricula in critical areas. The impact extends beyond individual advancement, significantly contributing to Pakistan’s national human resource development by generating a large pool of skilled youth prepared for both domestic and international employment opportunities, empowering individuals and strengthening the national economy.
The organization prioritizes underserved regions and marginalized populations, ensuring the benefits of a robust TVET sector reach all corners of the country. NAVTTC operates through a multi-faceted approach that includes developing policies, designing curricula, accrediting institutions, certifying skills, and establishing industry linkages. It collaborates with stakeholders, including federal and provincial governments, educational institutions, industry representatives, and international organizations to ensure TVET programs are relevant and high quality. Gulmina has shown remarkable dedication in capacity-building programs such as the Prime Minister’s Youth Skill Development Program (PMYSDP). This program emphasizes high-tech and traditional trades, apprenticeship training, nationwide accreditation of TVET institutes, international accreditation, joint international degree programs, the National Employment Exchange Tool (NEXT), and the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Her commitment is praiseworthy as she fervently endeavours to equip individuals with the necessary skills for employment and entrepreneurship. The TVET Sector Support Program, supported by the European Union and the governments of Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway, addresses the gap between the TVET system and job market demands. This program emphasizes the “Skills for All Strategy” with goals focused on green skills, digitization, and gender inclusion. Another remarkable initiative at TVET is the TAKAMOL Skill Verification Program, in collaboration with Saudi Arabia, which ensures Pakistani workers possess the necessary qualifications for employment in Saudi Arabia, enhancing job opportunities through internationally recognized certifications. The Matric-Tech pilot project integrates TVET into the formal education system, offering trades in public sector schools and colleges. NAVTTC engages in international partnerships to enhance TVET quality and reach, collaborating with organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO), UNHCR, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for technical assistance, capacity building, and funding. Partnerships with countries like Germany and China facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and technology. NAVTTC has advanced Pakistan’s TVET system by developing the NSS, establishing the NVQF, improving training standards and curricula, and expanding training and employment opportunities through industry and international collaborations, prioritizing marginalized communities for equitable access. NAVTTC has embraced innovative solutions to make technical and vocational education more accessible and relevant.
Gulmina Bilal Ahmed’s leadership at NAVTTC is characterized by her visionary approach and unwavering dedication to improving technical and vocational education in Pakistan. Her initiatives not only enhance the quality of education but also ensure that it is inclusive and accessible to all. Ms Ahmed’s efforts to bridge the gap between education and industry are commendable. By fostering partnerships with Industrial Associations and Chambers of Commerce, NAVTTC is creating opportunities for on-the-job training and employment for its graduates. These collaborations ensure that the curricula remain relevant and that students receive practical experience, making them more employable. She explained that the organization faces several challenges, including ensuring equitable access to technical and vocational education and training (TVET), updating curricula to align with industry needs, securing sustainable funding, and addressing the stigma associated with vocational training. By addressing the challenges and gaps in the current system, she is paving the way for a more skilled and empowered workforce. Her innovative solutions, inclusive programs, and industry collaborations are setting new standards in the field, making NAVTTC a hope for the youth of Pakistan. The entrepreneurial programs encourage students to think innovatively and develop marketable products and services. This entrepreneurial mindset fosters creativity and resilience in a competitive job market. Gulmina Bilal Ahmed’s achievements at NAVTTC exemplify her dynamic and enthusiastic personality. Her work is not just about education; it’s about creating opportunities, fostering inclusion, and driving societal change. As she continues to lead NAVTTC, one can only expect more groundbreaking initiatives that will shape the future of technical and vocational education in Pakistan, empowering individuals and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
