Gwadar, Pakistan – In a historic step to enhance vocational education and foster regional development, the Ban Mo Academy was inaugurated with ceremonies held simultaneously at Gwadar Port, Pakistan, and Jinan, China. This collaborative venture aims to address the critical shortage of skilled labor in Pakistan while strengthening China-Pakistan economic ties.
A Partnership to Bridge the Skills Gap
The Ban Mo Academy is the result of a joint initiative by:
- Pakistan-China Vocational and Technical College
- Gwadar Port Authority
- China Overseas Ports Holding (Pakistan) Co., Ltd.
A memorandum of cooperation formalized this partnership during the launch event, paving the way for advancing vocational training in Pakistan’s rapidly developing Gwadar region.
Aligning with China’s Vocational Vision
Zhang Zhidong, a representative of Shandong Business Vocational College, shared insights into the academy’s mission. Under China’s Vocational Education Going Global 2.0 initiative, the academy aspires to become a global brand for excellence in vocational education, combining state-of-the-art training facilities with industry-aligned curricula.
Empowering Gwadar’s Workforce
Ahmed Manzoor, principal of the vocational college in Gwadar, outlined the academy’s early successes:
- Over 60 graduates have already secured positions across government and private sectors.
- New degree programs, including e-commerce, software technology, and port management, are being introduced to meet Gwadar’s industrial needs.
“The academy represents a turning point for Gwadar’s youth, offering them the skills required for meaningful employment and economic uplift,” said Manzoor.
Commitment to Economic Growth
Yu Bo, Chairman of China Overseas Ports Holding (Pakistan), reaffirmed the academy’s role as a catalyst for regional economic growth. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between educational institutions and industries, which he believes will stimulate innovation and create job opportunities.
Pasand Khan Buledi, Chairman of the Gwadar Port Authority, highlighted the pressing need for such an initiative, revealing that 60% of local youth lack access to vocational training. Buledi praised China’s unwavering support in transforming Gwadar into a hub of economic activity and development.
A New Era for Gwadar
The launch of Ban Mo Academy marks a significant milestone in China-Pakistan cooperation. By equipping Gwadar’s youth with in-demand skills, the academy is set to play a crucial role in driving industrial growth, reducing unemployment, and positioning Gwadar as a key player in the region’s economic future.
As Gwadar continues to emerge as a strategic hub under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), initiatives like the Ban Mo Academy are vital to ensuring the region’s workforce is prepared for the opportunities ahead. This partnership highlights the potential of education and collaboration in unlocking regional prosperity.
For the latest updates on Gwadar’s development and China-Pakistan initiatives, visit PropertiesPakistan.com.
