Labor Market Assessment in Punjab
The “Labor Market Assessment in Punjab” report was developed under the Team Europe-funded TVET Sector Support Programme (SSP) in collaboration with NAVTTC. It aims to guide reforms in Pakistan’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector by promoting demand-driven courses, expanding training opportunities, and fostering gender equality. Based on consultations with key public and private stakeholders, the study offers data-driven insights to support policy and programme development. It also addresses key challenges in the sector, including low enrolment, lack of coordination, outdated curricula, limited funding, and social stigma. The report emphasises the need for inclusive and modernised training, especially for women, individuals with disabilities, and the transgender community.
Key findings
Growth sectors
The data highlights Punjab’s growing focus on digital and technology-driven industries, with strong demand across several advanced skill areas. Leading the list are Digital Corporate System Developers (227), underscoring the province’s shift toward integrated digital infrastructures in businesses. Digital Marketing (100), AI (64), Machine Learning (32), and Cyber Security (26) reflect a broader trend of digital transformation, automation, and the need for secure, data-driven solutions. There is also a consistent demand for IT Experts (60), Software Developers (61), and Data Analysts (48), indicating a robust need for core IT competencies. Additionally, roles in E-Commerce (43), Web Design and Development (37), Social Media Development (40), and even emerging sectors like Renewable Energy (66) and Laser Printing (45) showcase Punjab’s diverse and evolving economic priorities. These trends underline the importance of aligning training and education programmes with market demands to support the province’s digital and industrial growth.
Skill gaps
The demand-supply gap analysis across Punjab highlights significant mismatches between the skills produced by training programmes and those required by industries, reflecting both excess demand and excess supply in various sectors. In key areas such as healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and hospitality, there are severe shortages of trained professionals, notably for nurses, machine operators, restaurant managers, and technical roles like CNC Machine Operators and Agricultural Machine Operators. These gaps present opportunities for targeted vocational training to align workforce development with the actual demands of the economy.
Demand by region
Labor Market Assessment in Punjab