Islamabad: In a keynote address at the National Stakeholder Consultation on Green Skills Development, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Senator Musadik Masood Malik, stressed the importance of green skills in shaping Pakistan’s sustainable future. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping the workforce for a green transition.

Minister Malik emphasized the historic opportunity before Pakistan, not just in transitioning to a green economy but also in reshaping the future of work. He stated, “We must ensure that no one, especially the vulnerable, is left behind.” The event gathered government officials, development partners, private sector leaders, and youth representatives.

He highlighted the urgent need to invest in skills essential for a low-carbon economy, noting that the climate crisis poses challenges to ecosystems, livelihoods, and economic stability. Malik pointed out that Pakistan’s green transition is underway in energy, agriculture, and urban development, stressing that success depends on investing in green competencies.

The minister outlined the role of the climate change ministry in spearheading national climate action through various strategies that focus on human development and green employment. He highlighted the rise of green jobs in sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and the circular economy.

Minister Malik called for stronger collaboration between education systems, training institutions, businesses, and policymakers. He warned that without urgent action to equip youth, women, and workers with green skills, Pakistan risks widening inequalities and missing economic opportunities.

The minister acknowledged the partnership of the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) in advancing green livelihoods. He shared his vision for the GreenTech Hub, a national platform to drive innovation and green job creation. Malik also positioned Pakistan as a potential leader in global green skills initiatives at upcoming international climate forums.

He called for strategic action, emphasizing the need for robust data, cross-ministerial alignment, and private sector coordination to shape a resilient workforce. “We are preparing for a future where the wellbeing of our people and the health of our planet are inseparable,” he concluded.