Ahmad Shafiq, Founder, President and CEO of COTHM Global, along with Richard Sprenger, Chairman of Highfield International, held an important meeting with Engr. Qamar ul Islam Raja, Chairman of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), to explore opportunities for strengthening technical and vocational education and expanding international collaboration in skills development.
The meeting focused on developing potential avenues of cooperation to enhance Pakistan’s technical and vocational education and training (TVET) sector, promote globally recognised professional qualifications and equip the country’s emerging workforce with skills aligned with international industry requirements.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of connecting vocational education with industry needs, improving the quality of professional training and creating opportunities for Pakistani youth to access internationally recognised qualifications. The participation of Richard Sprenger brought an international perspective to the discussions, particularly regarding professional standards, food safety training, vocational qualifications and workforce development.
Ahmad Shafiq highlighted COTHM Global’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s hospitality, tourism and culinary education sectors through international partnerships and industry-oriented training initiatives. COTHM has continued to engage with international awarding organisations and professional bodies to expand learning opportunities and prepare students for careers in Pakistan and overseas.
Engr. Qamar ul Islam Raja’s engagement with the delegation provided an opportunity to discuss the role of national skills development institutions in facilitating international cooperation and strengthening the country’s vocational training ecosystem.
The meeting also underscored the growing importance of globally benchmarked skills in an increasingly competitive employment market. As industries continue to evolve, Pakistan’s vocational education sector requires stronger institutional partnerships, updated training frameworks and closer coordination between educational institutions, qualification providers and employers.
The potential collaboration between COTHM Global, Highfield International and NAVTTC represents an opportunity to explore new pathways for professional development, skills recognition and international engagement.
Through such strategic interactions, COTHM Global continues to pursue its vision of bridging the gap between education and industry, strengthening international connections and creating greater opportunities for Pakistan’s young and emerging workforce.
