CHITRAL: A delegation from Global Affairs Canada visited the District Social Welfare Office in Lower Chitral to review progress on a new vocational training centre designed to promote women’s economic empowerment in the region.
Led by Sasha Oliveira, Second Secretary at the High Commission of Canada in Islamabad, the delegation was welcomed by District Social Welfare Officer Khizar Hayat.
During the visit, the team inspected the newly-established Model Vocational Centre-cum-Production House. The centre has been developed in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare, Special Education and Women Empowerment, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Officials highlighted that the centre is the first of its kind in the province, offering training in traditional crafts such as shawl weaving, frame loom weaving, and carpet making.
In its first phase, 15 local women have completed training and will now produce handmade shawls, carpets, and wall hangings for sale, helping them earn sustainable income.
Future batches are planned to expand training opportunities for more women in Chitral district. Authorities say the centre will create new livelihood opportunities, strengthen local skills, and help reduce poverty by supporting women’s financial independence.
A formal inauguration ceremony for the vocational centre is expected soon, with marketing and operational plans to be finalised thereafter.
District Officer Khizar Hayat thanked the Canadian delegation for their support and expressed hope that such collaborations would continue to strengthen efforts for women’s welfare and empowerment in Chitral.