LAHORE: (Thursday, January 15, 2026): Punjab University and Hunarmand Punjab Consortium have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on youth skill development and capacity building in emerging and high-demand technologies. In this regard, the MoU signing ceremony was held at PU VC’s office here on Thursday. On this occasion, PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, CEO Hunarmand Punjab Consortium Muhammad Imran, Director CHEP Dr Qadeer Afzal Malik, Director External Linkages Prof Dr Yaamina Salman and others were present. According to details, the collaboration will be implemented through the PU Centre for High Energy Physics, with the aim of equipping young people with industry-relevant digital and technical skills to enhance employability and reduce unemployment in the province. Under the agreement, professional training programs will be offered in advanced fields including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Cyber security, and other emerging technologies. The duration of the training programs will be three to four months, with a target of training more than 500 students. Hunarmand Punjab Consortium, comprising Cyber security Pakistan, the National Initiative for E-commerce & Incubation Program, and the National Initiative for Smart Economy, will be responsible for marketing, provision of instructors, curriculum development, academic management, monitoring, quality assurance, and assessments. Meanwhile, PU CHEP will provide space and basic facilities for the training programs. PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali highlighted the importance of skill-based learning to augment and complement mainstream academic degrees and traditional disciplines, stressing that this approach is the need of the hour in today’s rapidly evolving job market. He also emphasized the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to degree programs, noting that such integration is essential to meet contemporary academic and professional demands. Speaking on the occasion, representatives from both institutions emphasized that the partnership aligns with national and provincial priorities for skills development and digital transformation. They expressed confidence that this collaboration will generate high-impact outcomes by preparing youth for local and international job markets and contributing to Pakistan’s rapidly evolving digital economy.