Pakistan’s government, in collaboration with the private
sector, could provide training in various skills to thousands of
youngsters and enhance manpower export to the hospitality industry of
different countries for earning significant value of remittance and
reducing a section of unemployment within a few years in the country.
This was stated by Sabir Ahmed, Executive Director at COTHM, while
addressing a conference on Exploring Career Opportunities in the
Hospitality Industry in 17th Plastic Packaging, Corrugated & Food Asia
International Exhibition at Expo Center on Wednesday.
He mentioned that the hospitality industry is expanding globally and
locally with increasing demands for skilled professionals in different
fields such as hospitality management, culinary arts, food and
beverages, travel and tourism management. Professionals in these
fields are in high demand in other countries, including Canada,
Australia, the Middle East, and different countries. Unfortunately,
Pakistani professionals are limited in this field to avail of these
opportunities compared to India, the Philippines, Thailand, and Sri
Lanka, the primary workforce suppliers to the hospitality industry
worldwide.
These blue-collar jobs offer attractive salaries and incentives in the
hospitality sector, along with immigration opportunities for
professionals, he said and added. The public at large should also give
preference to different trades in the hospitality industry as a choice
of employment and entrepreneurship, considering the bright scope of
earning handsome livelihoods.
Not everyone can pursue a high degree in medical science, engineering,
and finance, but various other trades offer good salary packages to
middle-class students, he further said.
The private sector has been active in providing education in the
hospitality sector. In contrast, the government must consistently
create learning opportunities for new students through public and
private partnerships at different universities and colleges.
The second day of the trade fair hosted various conferences on the
hospitality and food industries. The 17th edition of Plastic
Packaging, Corrugated, and Food Asia International began on October 29
and was inaugurated by the Provincial Minister for Industries and
Commerce Jam Ikramullah Dahrejo. Over 225 exhibitors from seven
countries are participating in this trade fair.
