With a 26 million yuan ($3.6 million USD) investment, the Huaneng Pakistan Vocational and Technical College, established by the Sahiwal coal-fired power plant—a key project of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan’s Sahiwal district—has been equipping the younger generation with enhanced employment skills and expanded career opportunities.
The vocational and training college was built by the Chinese operator of the 1,320-megawatt Sahiwal coal-fired power plant, one of Pakistan’s most efficient coal plants. Using advanced technology and top-tier environmental protection measures, the plant contributes to Pakistan’s energy security by generating clean and affordable electricity.
Muhammad Ramzan, who now works as a vice operator in the coal-handling department at the power plant, used to work a 12-hour shift at a petrol station for a low wage before joining the plant. He said that after studying Chinese at the training center and receiving a scholarship for advanced language courses in China, his life took a positive turn.
Upon his return from China, Ramzan secured a job at the Sahiwal coal-fired power plant’s fuel handling department, which dramatically improved his life. He explained how he developed his skills, beginning as a Chinese language student and later advancing to a senior operator role through continuous learning and support from Chinese colleagues.
Hafiz Muhammad Shahzad, a senior officer at the college and human resource manager at the power plant, shared that over 6,000 locals have been trained in various fields, including Chinese language, computer applications, electrical work, mechanics, welding, and fire safety. The college has also collaborated with top local universities, providing free training to university students in specialized fields.
Li Yanlu, vice principal of the college and head of administration at the Sahiwal power plant, highlighted the rigorous training provided to students, combining theoretical and practical learning to prepare them for careers in power plants and other industries, particularly within CPEC-related enterprises.
Sajjid Bashir, a teacher at the vocational college and senior fire safety executive at the power plant, takes pride in training his students and seeing them succeed professionally. Having started as a firefighter himself, Sajjid climbed the ranks to a senior fire safety role, demonstrating how dedication and training can lead to career advancement.
Chen Wei, vice president of Huaneng Pakistan Company, noted that out of nearly 800 Pakistani employees at the power plant, more than 200 are engineers, with 26 having advanced to vital management and production roles. Pakistani employees now make up nearly 80 percent of the workforce, playing a key role in the plant’s operations.
Hamza Yaqoob, a mechanical engineering student at COMSATS University and an intern at the vocational college, shared his experience of gaining practical knowledge about machinery and components during his six-week course at the college. He expressed gratitude for the college’s support, which includes free residence, transportation, and meals, enabling him to focus on his studies and future contributions to Pakistan’s development.
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