Punjab CM Launches Sahar Program
Punjab CM Launches Sahar Program. The Government of Punjab has introduced the Sahar Program, a major initiative aimed at empowering women by providing them with market-oriented skills and employment opportunities. Launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the program is designed to help women become financially independent while learning valuable skills from the comfort of their homes.
The project, officially known as Skill Enhancement Through Home Reach (Sahar), focuses on increasing women’s participation in the skilled workforce across Punjab. The initiative is expected to create new opportunities for thousands of women, particularly those living in remote and underserved areas.
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What Is the Sahar Program?
The Sahar Program is a home-based vocational training initiative that enables women to acquire professional skills without leaving their homes. The Punjab government has allocated more than Rs. 970 million for the project, which aims to train 5,365 women throughout the province.
The program targets women from urban, semi-urban, and rural areas, ensuring equal access to training and career development opportunities. Special priority is being given to widows, dependents, and women belonging to minority communities.
Training Courses Offered Under Sahar
The Sahar Program offers a variety of courses based on current market demand. These training programs are designed to help women secure employment or start their own businesses after completing their education.
Key training areas include:
- Beautification and beauty services
- Hair styling and skincare
- Makeup and nail art
- Hospitality management
- Culinary arts and baking
- Guest relations
- Front desk management
- Airline hospitality services
- Digital technology and e-commerce
These courses provide practical skills that can help women build successful careers in different industries.
Digital Skills and Online Business Training
One of the most important features of the Sahar Program is its focus on digital education. Participants receive training in:
- E-commerce
- Product research
- English language skills
- Financial literacy
- Online selling platforms such as Daraz and Shopify
To support digital learning, trainees are also provided with:
- Laptop computers
- Internet devices
- Data packages
- Monthly stipends
This support allows women to continue learning and earning from home while developing modern digital skills.
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Hospitality Training Successfully Begins
The hospitality training component of the Sahar Program is being conducted in collaboration with industry partners. The first batch of trainees has already completed training in major cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Gujranwala.
Participants receive professional instruction in hospitality services, preparing them for careers in hotels, restaurants, airlines, and customer service sectors.
Job Placement Opportunities for Women
Beyond training, the Punjab government plans to connect graduates with employment opportunities. Women who successfully complete their courses will be assisted in finding jobs and building sustainable careers.
This approach ensures that training leads to real economic benefits and contributes to the long-term financial stability of families across Punjab.
A Step Towards Women’s Economic Empowerment
The Sahar Program represents a significant effort to strengthen women’s role in the economy. By providing skills, technology, and employment support, the initiative aims to transform women into productive contributors to economic growth.
Government officials believe that empowering women financially will not only improve household incomes but also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of Punjab and Pakistan.
Conclusion
The launch of the Sahar Program by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif marks an important milestone in women’s empowerment. Through free vocational training, digital education, financial support, and job placement opportunities, the program is helping thousands of women gain the skills needed for a brighter future. As the initiative expands across Punjab, it has the potential to create lasting social and economic change for women and their families.