PSDF, NOWPDP sign MoU to promote inclusive vocational training for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)

LAHORE -- PSDF has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NOWPDP to provide market-relevant vocational training to persons with disabilities (PWDs) and support their employment in relevant industries in Punjab. 

The agreement was signed by Azka Munir, Head of Program Design PSDF, and Noor ul Ain Saeed, Manager of Programs and Operations, NOWPDP. The ceremony was attended by the senior management from both sides. It formalizes a partnership that positions NOWPDP as the Training Service Provider (TSP).  

NOWPDP has built its Center of Excellence for Disability Inclusion (CEDI) in Korangi, Karachi which is the first comprehensive disability center in Pakistan. It will deliver training through its two hubs: one in Karachi and one in Lahore.  

The CEDI aims to provide 70 market relevant skills training to almost 5000 PWDs per year, including 40 percent women PWDs.  
Under the MoU, both organizations will jointly identify trades aligned with industry demand, keeping in mind accessibility requirements and trainee competence.

Potential trades include digital literacy and IT, digital and social media marketing, freelancing and digital service delivery, industrial stitching and hospitality, culinary, and beautician training. Training curricula will be reviewed and adapted for trainees with hearing, visual, physical, and intellectual disabilities, with trainers receiving disability-sensitization orientation. 

“By working with NOWPDP, we look forward to mapping the PWDs in Punjab and ensure they can have equal access to market-relevant training which can enable them secure sustainable employment opportunities,” said Ahmed Khan, CEO, PSDF. 

Beyond training delivery, the partnership will also address barriers such as transportation, communication, and access to assistive technologies that often prevent PWDs from enrolling in and completing training. PSDF will provide funding support, program oversight, and facilitate linkages with its network of industry and employer partners, while NOWPDP will lead training delivery, trainee enrolment, and post-training job placement support. 

“NOWPDP is excited to partner with PSDF to expand PWDs access to vocational training across Punjab. We aim to work together towards reducing the barriers for PWDs to learning, employment, and business startups and support them in finding dignified livelihoods,” said Omair Ahmad, CEO, NOWPDP. 

The collaboration marks a significant step toward building a more inclusive skills ecosystem in Punjab, ensuring that PWDs can find jobs and start their own businesses according to their skills and preference.