The deep-rooted connection of the economic development and poverty alleviation with the skilled workforce is now an established fact. But when it comes to Pakistan, the situation is extremely dismal. Pakistan, unfortunately, has fallen behind not only in accordance with the international level, but also the regional standards. The situation of Pakistan especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa/FATA is much alarming due to the reason that the only Governmental institution are not capable to deliver the requisite outcomes. Being aware of the fact that technical education and skilled development is the backbone of economic growth and social development, the international skill development program was established with the prime objective to face the challenges and promote technical education system in Pakistan especially Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and FATA by exploring the local, national and international resources for sustainable development. The ISDP is presently focused on Promoting and providing demand-driven technical education and vocational training to the youth of the province. Re-engineer and consolidate the existing technical education and vocational training system under one management structure. Regulate and develop standards of technical education and vocational training including internationally-recognized curriculum, examination certification system. Upgrade teaching abilities, skills and knowledge of teaching staff. Upgrade teaching equipment’s to the required standard. Create institutional linkage with industries. Promote Public Private Partnership in the field. Make the ISDP system self- sustainable. Regular labour market surveys to identify sector-wise demand for vocational training.
In the continuous process of progress and prosperity of nations, it is very important to promote technical education & vocational training and certification according to current market needs. That is why the quantum of progress in scientific and technological pursuit is taken as an index of nations’ self-sufficiency, prosperity and supremacy in the world.
In the face of these glaring realities, the international skill development program realizes that if we have to progress it requires a very strong base for quality technical trades to produce competent technical manpower.
Besides, the international skill development program is trying to establish technical and vocational institutes in backward area of country to produce skilled labour because 35 percent labourers, working oversees belong to Pakistan, most of them unskilled.
The importance of technical education is constantly growing and knowledge-based industries are now occupying the center-stage in its development. Technical education as a major driver of economic development is well established, and this role will increase with changes in technologies.
Pakistan’s greatest asset is its human resource on which progress and prosperity of the country largely depends. Human Resource Development plays vital role in enhancing productivity and have key role for sustainable economic growth of the country.
ISDP is the process of measuring the competency and technical knowledge of a person aspiring to be a skilled worker, through practical performance and written expression. The quality of training should be sensitive with the emergent needs of job market. ISDP has improved, expanded and diversified technical and vocational training. The situation today is certainly far better than one prevailing in earlier period of our history.