The Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) and Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) Pakistan have formalized a partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create a structured framework that promotes safe, legal, and well-informed international migration for beneficiaries of the Parwaaz Card initiative. This initiative, led by Chief Minister Punjab, is part of the Maryam Nawaz Hunarmand Naujawan program.
Key Provisions of the MoU
Under the agreement, the MRC will conduct pre-departure counselling sessions, awareness workshops, and provide individual guidance on migration rights, documentation, visa procedures, and the dangers of irregular migration. The PSDF will identify and mobilize trained candidates for overseas employment, facilitating access to necessary pre-departure training and certifications.
Addressing Gaps in Migration Ecosystem
This collaboration addresses a critical gap in Pakistan’s migration system by ensuring that skilled workers heading abroad are equipped not only with technical skills but also with comprehensive knowledge of safe migration pathways, legal protections, and available support services. Ahmed Khan, CEO of PSDF, stated, “By integrating migration governance and counselling, we are ensuring our beneficiaries transition to international employment with confidence and security.”
Shazia Rafiq, Senior MRC Counsellor, noted that the partnership exemplifies how government, international institutions, and civil society can collaborate to protect and empower migrants by embedding migration safety within skills training. The PSDF and MRC will work closely to ensure prospective migrants possess both in-demand skills and the awareness needed for successful overseas careers.
Vision for Sustainable Employment
The partnership aims to strengthen sustainable employment outcomes for skilled workers while advancing Chief Minister Punjab’s vision of positioning the province as a leading hub of globally competitive and export-ready human capital.
