Skardu, June 2, 2025—
A high-level delegation comprising Saadia Ainuddin, Development Advisor at the Delegation of the European Union to Pakistan, Franziska Seal, Head of Program at GIZ, Tahir Khan, Program Component Manager at GIZ and other officials visited the Government Polytechnic Institute Skardu today. The institute has recently been declared a Center of Excellence (CoE) with the support of the European Union under its ongoing initiatives to strengthen the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The delegation was warmly received by Deputy Director TESD Engr. Asim Ali, who delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the institute’s transformation plan and key interventions being implemented under the EU-supported program.

The visit marks a significant milestone in the EU’s commitment to upgrading TVET infrastructure and capacity-building across Gilgit-Baltistan. Following the Skardu visit, the delegation is also scheduled to visit the Center of Excellence in Gilgit. On June 4 they will participate in the inaugural Project Implementation Committee (PIC) meeting alongside the Secretary Higher Technical and Special Education (HT&SE) GB to formally commence execution of the EU-funded interventions.

These efforts aim to enhance the quality, accessibility, and relevance of vocational training across the region, paving the way for improved employment opportunities and economic development.