BRIDGING THE SKILL GAP: TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AS A DRIVER OF HUMAN CAPITAL FORMATION IN CENTRAL PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study was designed to explore the pivotal role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in shaping human capital formation among youth in Central Punjab, Pakistan. As Pakistan faces increasing challenges related to youth unemployment, skill mismatches, and economic disparities, TVET has emerged as a strategic tool to empower young individuals with relevant technical skills, entrepreneurial capabilities, and workplace competencies. In this new era of growth, highly talented people are more important than ever for national development. However, it is also true that Pakistan is losing more and more highly skilled workers. The establishment of Technical Vocational Education and Training aimed to cultivate a proficient workforce for many industries and sectors in Pakistan; yet, sixty percent of the youth entering the labour market are unskilled or semi-skilled, originating from informal and non-formal sectors. The present study was conducted in Central Punjab, Pakistan. Current study was conducted in central Punjab, Pakistan. Two districts, Lahore and Faisalabad, were selected from central Punjab. To get quantitative data, the Taro Yamane algorithm was used to figure out the sample size. It turned out to be 503 respondents, who were chosen from the selected technical colleges by using proportionate allocation. The primary instruments for data collection were the interview schedule. The analysis showed that being part of the workforce is very important for development. The results demonstrate the significance of women's substantial involvement in the labour market for the country's socioeconomic progress. Skilled workers had an easier time finding jobs in the labour market than unskilled workers. The findings indicate that Pakistan can leverage its existing cohort of TVET graduates by promoting entrepreneurship, human capital development, and workforce engagement. But sadly, it can't use it well because of the difficulties in the industry. Respondents said that the industry didn't give them a good place to start working, and the second problem is that the government doesn't give enough money to the TVET sector. It is the main obstacle to using TVET graduates. To unlock the full potential of TVET graduates, a coordinated effort is needed. This includes reforming policies to better align education with labor market needs, fostering strong partnerships between industry and educational institutions, and increasing investment in TVET infrastructure and resources. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthening the TVET sector through policy reforms, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable investment to maximize its impact on youth development in Central Punjab.