Youth & Poverty-Alleviation Schemes in Pakistan (2025 Edition)
Pakistan is home to one of the youngest populations in the world. Recognizing this, both federal and provincial governments have launched various youth-focused programs aimed at reducing poverty, increasing employment, and empowering the next generation. These initiatives provide interest-free loans, digital training, and job opportunities across multiple sectors.
This article highlights the most impactful youth and poverty-alleviation schemes active in 2025, helping you understand what’s available and how to benefit from them.
Kamyab Jawan / Prime Minister’s Youth Programme
What Is It?
Kamyab Jawan is a nationwide initiative focused on youth development. It was first introduced in 2013 and reactivated in late 2022. Its main goal is to support young entrepreneurs, students, and skilled individuals through financial aid and development opportunities.
What Does It Offer?
- Interest-Free and Low-Markup Loans: Ranging from PKR 10,000 up to PKR 25 million, split across three tiers. Smaller loans require no collateral.
- Scholarships: Skill development programs for technical education and vocational training.
- Laptop and Education Support: Students in public universities may qualify for free laptops and stipends.
- Sports and Talent Hunt Programs: Helps identify and promote young athletes across the country.
Who Can Apply?
- Pakistani citizens aged 21 to 45.
- Those with a clear business idea or in need of education/skill support.
- Special quotas are reserved for women, minorities, and people with disabilities.
Why It Matters
With billions of rupees allocated annually, Kamyab Jawan empowers youth to become job creators instead of job seekers. It also fosters inclusion, helping marginalized communities access funds and resources they may not get elsewhere.
e-Rozgaar Program (Punjab)
What Is It?
The e-Rozgaar Program is a project launched by the Punjab government in collaboration with its IT Board. Its mission is to train young people in digital skills so they can earn online through freelancing and remote jobs.
Key Training Areas
- UI/UX Design
- Web and Mobile App Development
- Digital Marketing & SEO
- Content Writing & Freelancing Platforms
Who Can Join?
- Graduates with a domicile of Punjab.
- Applicants must pass a short online test and interview.
- Training is available in both on-site centers and online formats.
Impact So Far
Thousands of trainees have completed the program and are now earning through platforms like Fiverr and Upwork. Many have started their own digital businesses or freelance careers.
Why This Program Works
It removes barriers like high education fees or the need for office jobs. With just a laptop and internet connection, a person can begin earning from home within weeks of completing the course.
Suthra Punjab (Sanitation Jobs)
What Is It?
Suthra Punjab is a massive cleanliness and waste-management initiative launched in December 2024. It was created to improve hygiene across cities and rural areas while also generating employment.
What It Offers
- Over 100,000 Jobs: Includes sanitation workers, supervisors, truck drivers, and waste collection staff.
- Advanced Equipment: Thousands of cleaning vehicles, machines, and monitoring tools are deployed across Punjab.
- Tech Integration: A mobile app and helpline allow residents to report garbage issues and track service quality.
Employment Focus
The scheme gives priority to unemployed youth, especially those with limited education. Workers are provided uniforms, training, and safety equipment. Some roles may lead to permanent government positions over time.
Long-Term Vision
In the next phase, Punjab aims to turn waste into energy and explore recycling for revenue generation. The focus is on sustainability while offering stable jobs.
Ehsaas Youth Schemes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Overview
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has launched several youth-focused initiatives under the Ehsaas umbrella. These schemes aim to support economic growth, reduce poverty, and help youth build better futures.
Major Schemes
1. Ehsaas Nojawan Programme
- Offers interest-free loans from PKR 100,000 to PKR 500,000.
- Youth groups can apply for cluster loans of PKR 1–5 million.
- Focus on start-ups, small shops, and service businesses.
- Grace period of nearly two years before repayment begins.
2. Ehsaas Rozgar Programme
- Provides soft loans up to PKR 10 million.
- Encourages small business owners and youth entrepreneurs to grow.
3. Ehsaas Hunar Programme
- Supports young people with skill-based business ideas.
- Loans up to PKR 500,000 available for artisans and vocational workers.
4. Apna Ghar Housing Loan
- Designed for youth wanting to build or renovate homes.
- Offers interest-free loans up to PKR 1.5 million.
Who Benefits?
- Youth between the ages of 18 and 40.
- Special consideration for women-led businesses, disabled individuals, and rural youth.
- Loans are issued through local banks and microfinance institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I apply for these schemes?
Visit the official websites or contact local offices. You’ll need documents like CNIC, a business idea (if applying for loans), and sometimes a graduation certificate.
Are these schemes only for university graduates?
Not at all. Many programs like Suthra Punjab and Ehsaas Rozgar are open to those without formal education.
Can women apply?
Yes! In fact, many schemes reserve 25%–50% of their funding specifically for women.
Are these loans really interest-free?
Yes, many offer zero-interest loans or very low markup rates. Be sure to read the full terms before applying.
Do these programs cover all of Pakistan?
Some are national (like Kamyab Jawan), while others are provincial (like e-Rozgaar in Punjab or Ehsaas in KP).
Final Thoughts
Youth empowerment is no longer a buzzword—it’s a policy priority. From digital freelancing to sanitation work, from startup loans to housing assistance, these programs are helping Pakistan’s youth take charge of their future.
If you’re a young Pakistani looking to start a business, gain new skills, or find stable work, there’s probably a scheme out there for you. Take the first step. Check your eligibility. And apply.
Your future could start today.
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