Interior Sindh: – The Dawood Global Foundation (DGF), with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Pakistan, has successfully concluded a groundbreaking Green Skill Training Programme in Sindh. Over the course of one month, 1,200 youth, 600 men and 600 women aged 18-35, from Mirpurkhas, Tando Allahyar, Dadu, and Larkana gained practical green skills in key areas like beekeeping, water harvesting, fuel-efficient cooking, fruit and vegetable dehydration, kitchen gardening, and e-commerce, empowering participants to drive positive change in their communities. These skills are not only crucial for promoting environmental conservation but also create pathways to self-employment and socioeconomic growth, especially for young women in rural areas.
Ayesha Khan Bhatti from Larkana shared how the e-commerce training transformed her life: “After completing the training, I registered on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork and landed two freelance projects. This allowed me to contribute an additional PKR 15,000 to my family’s income. For the first time, I feel confident supporting my education and easing our household expenses. This skill is more than just a way to earn—it empowers girls like me to take charge of our future.”
Aakash from Mirpurkhas, who received training in organic farming, said: “Learning organic farming techniques has transformed how we cultivate our land. By adopting these methods, our vegetable yield will increase by 20%, cutting down our reliance on costly fertilizers. We now save around 10 labour hours each week, and our monthly earnings have risen by PKR 10,000. This training has boosted my confidence, knowing that I’m contributing to my family’s livelihood and well-being.”
Faizan Noor from Tando Allahyar shared: “The training on fuel-efficient cooking and water harvesting showed me how small changes can benefit the environment. We’ve reduced firewood use by 30%, which saves money and helps conserve our local forests. I’m motivated to continue these practices and teach others in my community, so we can all work toward a cleaner, greener future.”
By conducting 80% of the trainings in Sindhi and involving local trainers, the Green Skills Training Programme ensured cultural sensitivity and effective knowledge transfer.
Dawood Global Foundation (DGF) further provided solar stoves to 200 participants certified in fuel-efficient cooking solutions. Additionally, trainers across all four districts were awarded solar stoves in recognition of their pivotal role in the programme. This initiative empowered them to adopt sustainable practices, reduce fuel costs, and promote environmental conservation.
“We are deeply honored to have been able to train local youth in their own language with skills that will help them with their livelihood. Whether it’s to make a product like dehydrated fruit or to start an e-commerce page to sell their craft, it’s been a pleasure to see their eyes open to possibilities,” said Tara Uzra Dawood, CEO, Dawood Global Foundation.
This innovative programme underscores the critical role of green skills in advancing sustainable development and empowering Pakistan’s youth. By equipping young people with the knowledge and tools to drive positive change, DGF, with UNDP’s support, is making a significant contribution to Sindh’s economic growth and environmental resilience. Through this initiative, participants are gaining the skills needed for sustainable livelihoods while supporting the region’s progress towards a more resilient and net-zero future.
