Islamabad – Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema met World Bank Vice President for People Mamta Murthi on Wednesday to review ongoing cooperation and discuss new initiatives focused on human capital development, skills training, and youth employment.
According to Beyond Time News, the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in health, education, and workforce development, with both sides agreeing to enhance practical and results-oriented cooperation.
Focus on Human Capital Development
The discussions emphasized the importance of human capital as a key driver of economic growth. Both sides stressed the need to improve education, skills, and health systems to better prepare Pakistan’s workforce for evolving economic demands.
The World Bank briefed the minister on proposed interventions aimed at improving service delivery and strengthening human development outcomes across key sectors.
Health Compact and Digital Healthcare
A proposed medium-term Health Compact was discussed to strengthen primary healthcare services in Pakistan.
The initiative aims to improve maternal and child health, expand access to basic healthcare, and introduce digital systems to improve efficiency and service delivery. It also encourages coordination with development partners for better implementation.
Skills Development for Youth Employment
The World Bank also proposed a Skills Development Program to modernize technical and vocational training.
The program focuses on aligning training with market demand to improve employability and create better job opportunities for young people. Both sides agreed that skills initiatives must be industry-driven and linked to labor market needs.
Government Priorities and Private Sector Role
Ahad Cheema welcomed the proposals and stressed alignment with national development priorities. He emphasized the use of digital solutions to improve healthcare delivery and called for stronger links between training programs and industry needs.
He also highlighted the importance of private sector participation in healthcare and skills development to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Ahad Cheema Calls for Transparency and Strong Monitoring in PPP Projects
IFC and Future Cooperation
The meeting also discussed greater involvement of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in supporting private sector-led initiatives in healthcare and skills development.
Both sides agreed to strengthen coordination between the government, World Bank Group, and private sector to improve implementation and outcomes.
Conclusion
The meeting reflected a shared commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s human capital through reforms in healthcare, education, and skills development, with a strong focus on youth employment and economic growth.
FAQs
1. What was discussed in the meeting?
Human capital development, healthcare reforms, skills training, and youth employment.
2. What is the Health Compact?
A proposed plan to improve primary healthcare and introduce digital health systems.
3. What is the Skills Development Program?
A program to align vocational training with job market needs.
4. What role does the private sector play?
It is expected to support healthcare and skills initiatives through investment and expertise.
5. Why is human capital important?
It helps improve productivity, employment, and long-term economic growth.
