**Minister of State Visits NIC Quetta, Praises Youth Innovation and Inclusive Development Initiatives**
Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, visited the National Incubation Center (NIC) at the Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering, and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) in Quetta, where she was briefed on the center’s achievements and ongoing initiatives supporting youth entrepreneurship and education in Balochistan.
During her visit, Ms. Qamar received an in-depth briefing from the NIC Director and the Vice Chancellor of BUITEMS, who highlighted the center’s operational model, key accomplishments, and its role as a catalyst for change in the region. The NIC Quetta, recognized as a leading project in the province, continues to inspire innovation by supporting technology-driven, creative startups and offering opportunities for local talent.
The CEO of the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), Mr. Nadir Gul Barech, provided an update on a PPAF-supported initiative at NIC Quetta focused on promoting youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship. This program facilitates the launch of startups centered on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by offering bootcamps, mentorship, and seed funding, thereby empowering young entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable growth in Balochistan.
The Minister was joined at the center by the Director General of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) Balochistan. Ms. Qamar commended the collaborative efforts among multiple organizations, including the government and its partners, in driving inclusive development. She also noted the increased access to education through scholarships, stipends, and various student support programs, underscoring the government’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering innovation.
The visit underscored the significance of NIC Quetta as a role model for regional development through technological advancement, capacity building, and the promotion of entrepreneurship among young Pakistanis, particularly in Balochistan.
