China, Pakistan Launch International Welding Training Program

China International Intellectech Group Co. Ltd. (CIIC), a leading Chinese state-owned human resource enterprise, has partnered with Pakistan’s Skill Tech Hub to launch an international-standard welding training program. The initiative aims to equip Pakistani welders with globally recognised skills for Chinese-funded projects in Pakistan.

The agreement was signed at Skill Tech Hub’s head office in Islamabad. Chairperson of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, attended the ceremony and commended the collaboration. The move strengthens China–Pakistan cooperation in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector.

Under the pilot phase, training will begin on November 1, 2025, at Skill Tech Hub facilities. A total of 100 Pakistani welders will receive hands-on instruction following international safety and technical standards. Each trainee will earn a global certification and gain guaranteed employment through CIIC’s partner enterprises engaged in infrastructure and industrial projects across Pakistan.

“This collaboration marks a milestone in Pakistan–China skills development,” said Noor Fatima Alvi, Director of Skill Tech Hub. “It empowers youth with competitive expertise and ensures direct job placements in high-demand industries.”

NAVTTC Chairperson Gulmina Bilal Ahmad described the partnership as a “landmark step” toward transforming Pakistan into a regional centre for training and employment. She emphasised that such initiatives deepen people-to-people ties and strengthen bilateral cooperation in human capital development.

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Beijing, CIIC operates in more than 300 cities across China. It serves around 100,000 companies worldwide in labour export, training, and technology services. The new partnership seeks to establish a ‘Training–Certification–Employment’ model that aligns workforce development with global industry demands, setting new benchmarks for vocational excellence and international collaboration.