Punjab Rozgar Support Programme 2025 – A Lifeline for Youth Employment
Introduction: A Ray of Hope in Hard Times
Unemployment is one of the most pressing issues in Pakistan today. For many young people in Punjab, finishing education does not guarantee a job. Parents spend their life savings on their children’s studies, only to see them return home with degrees but without employment. Rising inflation, shrinking job opportunities, and lack of guidance have created an environment of frustration.
Against this background, the Employment Processing Resource (EPR) — Pakistan’s largest private corporate body dedicated to employment services — has launched the Punjab Rozgar Support Programme 2025. Announced on September 25, 2025, this initiative is designed to provide direct job opportunities, skill-based certifications, and access to both local and overseas markets. Applications have already begun, with thousands of young men and women rushing to register for what many describe as “a lifeline at the right time.”
What is the Punjab Rozgar Support Programme?
The Punjab Rozgar Support Programme is not a typical short-term relief scheme. It is a structured employment support system designed to bridge the gap between unemployed youth and the job market.
Under this programme, EPR will:
- Connect eligible youth directly with employers in Punjab’s public and private sectors.
- Issue Merit Assessment Certificates to successful applicants, proving their skills and professional worth.
- Support candidates in securing overseas employment in collaboration with national and international organizations.
- Provide guidance, training, and assistance to enhance professional skills.
By combining placement, certification, and skill development, the programme creates a complete employment ecosystem for Punjab’s youth.
Why This Programme Matters Now
1. Rising Youth Unemployment
With over 60% of Pakistan’s population under 30, the country has one of the largest youth populations in the world. Yet, unemployment among educated youth is alarmingly high.
2. Inflation and Social Pressure
Families already struggling with inflation cannot afford job placement services or expensive overseas visas. The programme brings affordable, state-supported opportunities.
3. Brain Drain Challenges
Every year, thousands leave Pakistan for work abroad, often through unsafe or illegal means. This programme provides legal, transparent, and safe pathways for overseas jobs.
4. Women’s Empowerment
Unemployment hits women harder due to social barriers. By ensuring equal access, the programme could transform the lives of thousands of young women across Punjab.
Key Features of the Programme
Direct Job Opportunities
Applicants will be matched with real vacancies in government institutions, private companies, and international firms.
Merit Assessment Certificate
Every successful candidate will receive an official certificate verifying their skills. This certificate will strengthen applications for both local and foreign jobs.
Overseas Employment Support
Special focus will be given to legal migration opportunities. Training and facilitation will be provided for Gulf countries, Europe, and other regions where Pakistani youth are in demand.
Professional Development
Workshops and training sessions will be organized to improve communication, technical, and professional skills — helping youth adapt to market needs.
Public-Private Partnership
The initiative connects government resources with private sector expertise, creating a powerful collaboration model rarely seen in Pakistan.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to all eligible youth of Punjab. Basic requirements include:
- Age between 18–35 years.
- Valid Punjab domicile.
- Minimum matriculation (for basic jobs) or higher education/diplomas for professional roles.
- Willingness to work either in Pakistan or abroad.
Applications can be submitted online through the official EPR website or offline via postal mail.
Application Deadline
The application process has already started, and the last date for submission is 15th October 2025. After this date, no new entries will be accepted.
Voices from the Youth
- Ahmed, a graduate from Lahore:
“I have been unemployed for over a year. This programme gives me hope that my degree will finally be useful.” - Sadia, a young woman from Faisalabad:
“Most job opportunities ignore women. If EPR ensures equal access, it will be life-changing for girls like me.” - Bilal, a diploma holder from Multan:
“I want to work abroad but never had proper guidance. This programme will help me apply legally and safely.”
These voices reflect the desperation and expectations surrounding the scheme.
Impact on Punjab’s Economy and Society
The Punjab Rozgar Support Programme is expected to create significant ripple effects:
- Lower Unemployment Rates: Thousands of youth will move from jobless frustration to productive work.
- Economic Growth: Increased household incomes will boost purchasing power and stimulate the economy.
- Social Stability: Employment reduces crime, frustration, and unrest among youth.
- Gender Inclusion: Women’s participation in the workforce will strengthen families and communities.
- Global Integration: Overseas employment will bring remittances, a major source of Pakistan’s economy.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Hina Saeed, Economist (Lahore):
“This programme is more than a welfare scheme; it is an economic investment. By training and employing youth, Punjab is securing its economic future.”
Imam Abdul Kareem, Scholar:
“Helping young people earn halal income is among the greatest services a society can provide. This programme reduces frustration and promotes dignity.”
Global Comparisons
- India: Similar employment schemes connect youth with IT and service sectors.
- Bangladesh: Focuses on overseas employment, especially in the Gulf.
- Middle East: State-funded job placement systems exist for young citizens.
Punjab’s programme is unique because it combines domestic and overseas opportunities with certification and training under one umbrella.
Challenges Ahead
- Transparency: Ensuring fair selection without favoritism.
- Awareness: Reaching rural youth who lack digital access.
- Funding Sustainability: Ensuring the programme continues beyond political cycles.
- Cultural Barriers: Convincing families to allow women to participate.
If managed carefully, these challenges can be turned into strengths.
FAQs for Punjab Rozgar Support Programme 2025
Q1: What is the Punjab Rozgar Support Programme 2025?
It is an initiative by EPR to provide jobs, skills, and overseas opportunities for Punjab’s youth.
Q2: Who can apply for the programme?
Young men and women of Punjab aged 18–35 with valid domicile can apply.
Q3: What benefits are included?
Direct job placements, merit certificates, skill training, and overseas job support.
Q4: How can youth apply for this programme?
Applications can be submitted online through the EPR website or by post before 15 October 2025.
Conclusion: A New Beginning for Punjab’s Youth
The Punjab Rozgar Support Programme 2025, launched by EPR, represents a turning point in youth employment. By offering direct job placements, professional certification, skill training, and overseas opportunities, it tackles unemployment from multiple angles.
For thousands of young men and women, this initiative is not just about jobs — it is about hope, dignity, and a brighter future. If executed honestly and sustainably, it could become a model programme for all of Pakistan.
With applications open until 15th October 2025, the programme already stands as one of the most impactful youth employment initiatives in Punjab’s recent history. For the struggling youth of Punjab, it is more than a scheme — it is a promise of opportunity, a path to self-reliance, and a chance to dream again.
