Enterprise development program to boost youth employment in Balochistan

Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan chaired an important meeting to review progress on the province’s Enterprise Development Program, aimed at creating employment opportunities and fostering

QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th Apr, 2026) Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan chaired an important meeting to review progress on the province’s Enterprise Development Program, aimed at creating employment opportunities and fostering

economic growth in underdeveloped districts.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized that providing jobs for the youth is a top priority of the provincial government.

He noted that in collaboration with the Balochistan Rural Support Program (BRSP), the initiative was designed to stimulate economic activity in rural areas, improve living standards, and strengthen the provincial economy.

Under the program, employment opportunities would be created for 80,000 households, while 12,000 individuals would receive interest-free loans through Akhuwat.

The initiative focuses on enabling young people to establish small businesses, promoting self-employment rather than dependency on jobs.

Officials briefed the meeting that district and tehsil offices have been established in all targeted areas, with 275 staff recruited and trained.

Orientation sessions with policymakers, including Federal and provincial ministers, senators, Members National Assembly (MNAs), Members Provincial Assembly (MPAs), and district administrations, were planned.

Cultural and thematic seminars on peace and harmony have already begun at the district level, with 11 events held so far, attended by 3,946 participants, including 34 percent women.

As part of the Peace and Social Cohesion Program, 215 grants would be provided to community-based organizations (CBOs) and local support organizations (LSOs) to strengthen their capacity. Additionally, 550 youth would participate in national-level exposure visits.

Looking ahead to the next fiscal year, the program would provide training and asset distribution to 25,400 of the poorest households, technical and enterprise development training to 2,565 youth, and grants to 124 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Development Zahid Saleem, Secretary Industries Khalid Sarpara, BRSP Chief Executive Officer Dr. Tahir Rasheed, and other senior officials.