The federal government has sought detailed action plans from relevant stakeholders to strengthen human resource development and overseas employment opportunities under the Saudi Pakistan Economic Cooperation Framework (SPECF). The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development is consolidating proposals after engagements with Saudi authorities, with a focus on improving labor and student mobility for Pakistanis.
All concerned federal secretaries, regulatory bodies, technical and vocational institutions, and professional councils have been directed to submit action plans within their respective mandates. The initiative aims to align Pakistan’s human capital development with Saudi Arabia’s labor market needs, ensuring better employment prospects and protections for Pakistani workers abroad.
Key measures under consideration include mutual recognition of qualifications for in-demand professions, reforms in the recruitment system through licensing and fee caps, and stricter compliance mechanisms. The plan also proposes joint labor dispute response cells to address grievances of Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia and improve coordination between authorities of both countries.
For students, the proposed framework includes streamlining visa procedures, seeking dedicated enrollment quotas for Pakistani students, and launching single-window digital platforms linking Pakistani systems with Saudi institutions. Additional steps include pre-departure orientation, language and skills bridge programs, student exchange and apprenticeship schemes, and the development of alumni and mentorship networks to support long-term career pathways across the Saudi-Pakistan corridor.
