The Government of Punjab, with financial support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has launched Phase IV of the SPPAP project, which is being implemented across 10 districts in both South and North Punjab. These districts include Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Muzaffargarh, DG Khan, Rajanpur, Rahimyar Khan, Layyah, Bakhar, Khushab, and Mianwali.
Since 2014, the Institute of Rural Management (IRM), in collaboration with the Planning and Development Board of the Government of Punjab, has been a key implementation partner. In April 2023, it initiated Phase IV of the Vocational Training Project, which offers three-month vocational skills training based on market demand. The project is scheduled to run until March 2028 and aims to provide employable skills to 54,555 rural men and women from the most deserving households under the BISP program, specifically those with a score of 0-18.
To date, the Institute of Rural Management has positively impacted the lives of over 45,000 households through its advanced training methodologies, focusing on vocational training and enterprise development. With its comprehensive and dynamic approach to poverty alleviation, the project has become a significant milestone in improving the social and economic status of Southern Punjab.
Highlights of the Project:
- The vocational training component offers skills development in over 32 trades through mobile centres at the Union Council (UC) level, providing high-quality training directly at participants’ doorsteps. The project impacts 70% of women, promoting financial independence.
- Post-training, beneficiaries receive technical and financial support, including ongoing mentoring and assistance with accessing small loans through Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) to start or grow their businesses.
- The training model also incorporates business management, financial literacy, and digital literacy, equipping participants with essential skills for sustainable entrepreneurship and success in a digital economy. This holistic approach enhances long-term financial independence and enterprise growth.
Such a model reflects a growing trend in development projects, where capacity building extends beyond technical skills to include a broader understanding of the economic and digital landscape, fostering a more resilient and adaptable workforce.
Contact Information:
Email: anwar@irm.edu.pk
Address: IRM Complex, #7, Sunrise Avenue, Park Road, Near COMSATS University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
Contact number: +92 51 8742201-7
