A total of 1,200 people have graduated from vocational training programs in Khost. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, officials from the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs said that every year tens of thousands of young people across the country complete various vocational and professional programs to help reduce unemployment and support self-reliant livelihoods for youths and their families.
Deputy Minister for Labor at the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, Mawlawi Mohammad Zahid Ahmadzai, said: “The Islamic Emirate plans to prioritize vocational and skills training for migrants returning from neighboring and distant countries, especially where young people are unemployed. Our effort is to provide them with opportunities to learn skills and professions.”
He added that individuals who were previously addicted to narcotics and considered a burden on society are also being trained through these programs.
According to him, about 10,000 former drug users have so far graduated from vocational programs and are now earning incomes.
“So far, 10,000 people who were previously a burden on society have graduated and are now employed and earning,” Ahmadzai said.
Graduates praised the program, saying the training provides them with important opportunities to find work and earn income. They expressed hope that the skills they learned would help them support themselves and their families.
Graduate Khalid Mangal said: “I really needed this opportunity. I was unemployed before and could not learn such a skill. Now I have learned a trade and can earn a living through tailoring.”
Another graduate, Karimullah, said: “Computer skills are very important, and I have now learned this profession. God willing, I will be able to meet up to 80 percent of my household needs through this. I will continue to develop my skills and learn more in the future.”
Graduate Ali Shah Khan said: “My request is that such support continues in the future, so young people can stay engaged in work and move away from drugs.”
The six vocational fields covered in the training programs included motorcycle repair, mobile phone repair, computer skills, electrical wiring for buildings, tailoring, and dairy processing. Officials said these programs will also provide vocational training and healthy employment opportunities for returning Afghans, people with disabilities, and former prisoners.
