Siyani Sahelian marketplace by ITA kicks off with a stopover at Rahim Yar Khan

A discussion and marketplace event under the Siyani Sahelian program of civil society organization Idara-e- Taleem-o-Aagahi (ITA) was held at Rahim Yar Khan on February 25, 2021 to shed light on the potential of the artists hailing from disadvantaged segments of the district and opening avenues for them through linkages with the industry and other innovative collaborations with various bodies. Siyani Sahelian second chance programme for girls’ education, being implemented by Idara-e-Taleem-o- Aagahi (ITA) with the support of FCDO UK and in collaboration with the Government of Punjab, aims to tackle gender inequality for disadvantaged out of school adolescent girls (aged 9-19) in three districts of South Punjab – Muzaffargarh, Bahawalpur and Rahim Yar Khan – through accelerated learning programs (both education and skill based). The event was an exposition of the products and services produced by the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) beneficiaries of the program, after receiving a three-month skill development training, and was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders from the TVET space of Rahim Yar Khan, including the industry, the education space, representatives from the government and other vocational training centers. Khawaja Farid University Vice Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Salman was the guest of honor on the occasion. Speaking at the event, he stressed upon the increasing need for vocational training programs. “The dominant trend has been that males have been seen as the breadwinner in households. But we can see a shift. With the increasing need of wage earners, females are looking at various wage-earning avenues and TVET-based education offers realistic income generation opportunities for the female vulnerable groups,” he said. The event was also attended by UNICEF focal person in Rahim Yar Khan Ms. Rihanna Irum, industrialist Mr. Aamir Shahzad and IBA Rahim Yar Khan Principal Mr. Sambal Shaheem. The event also saw a panel discussion on ‘Building Enabling Environments for Local Female Artists’. Rahim Yar Khan Trade Union President Mr. Muhammad Boota Tahir, Zeenat Fabrics and Textiles CEO Mr. Abdul Salam, member Working Woman Development Organization Anam Malik, member Bait-ul-Maal Punjab Nausheen Mirza, businessman Mr. Shahab Ahmad Khan, TEVTA District Manager Mr. Rohail Gohar, Ranger Institute of Vocational Training Principal Khurram Mansoor and Insaaf Organization Chairperson Ms. Muneeba Shahid participated as panelists. They highlighted the importance of creation of opportunities for the vulnerable segments of society and pledged to work towards this goal in their individual capacities as well.