Pak-China Technical and Vocational Institute (PCTVI) at the University of Gwadar has opened admissions for short-term courses in artificial intelligence, e-commerce and other digital skills, with support from Chinese faculty. The initiative is seen as part of broader efforts to prepare local youth for opportunities in the digital economy under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Gwadar Pro reported.

The three-month programs cover areas such as data analytics, generative AI, Python programming, mobile application development, freelancing and digital marketing. University officials said the training will help equip students from Balochistan and across Pakistan with skills that are increasingly in demand for trade and innovation. Faculty from Shenzhen Institute of Information Technology (SICT), China, will join Pakistani instructors in teaching several of the courses.

The Chinese expertise would not only improve the quality of training but also strengthen educational cooperation between the two countries. “Such programs are vital to link Gwadar with the global digital economy and future trade networks,” said Omer J. Baloch, a faculty member at Balochistan University of IT, Engineering and Management Sciences, who belongs to Gwadar.

“With Chinese faculty on board, this initiative will directly contribute to creating economic opportunities for youth, particularly in e-commerce and freelancing sectors.” PCTVI itself was established as a flagship CPEC project with Chinese assistance to train local manpower for Gwadar’s emerging role in regional connectivity and trade.

The institute has since evolved into a center for vocational and technical education, now expanding into digital skills in line with global economic trends. Facilities at the institute include ICT-enabled classrooms, computer labs, a digital library, and an auditorium for conferences and workshops. Free transport is being offered for female students in Gwadar, while hostels are available for students from other parts of Makran and beyond.

Scholarships and stipends are also being provided. The Gwadar Port Authority is offering financial support for hostel accommodations, while tuition fee waivers and merit-based aid are available through PCTVI. Applications are open to students with matriculation or intermediate qualifications, and admissions are currently under way.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China