Philip Morris Pakistan Completes 2024 Skills Training Project for Children of Tobacco Farmers

Project held from June to August, aligns with summer vacations when children are most vulnerable to child labor for tobacco harvesting

Mazhar Ali Raza

Karachi: Philip Morris (Pakistan) Limited (PMPKL) has wrapped up its 2024 Skills Training Project, benefiting the children of contracted tobacco farmers. The project, running from June to August, coincides with summer vacation, a period when children are at risk of child labor during peak tobacco harvesting.

The initiative offers practical training in trades like building electricity and tailoring. Boys learn basic electrician skills, while girls are trained in tailoring, food preservation, and hygiene. Weekly sessions also cover plant grafting and budding for boys and food syrup preparation for girls.

The closing ceremony occurred in Swabi on August 29, 2024, attended by PMPKL management and partner DragonFly Agriculture. Certificates and awards were given to 896 children (448 boys and 448 girls). Graduates also received toolkits and sewing machines to help them apply their new skills. The event included an exhibition of the students’ projects and products.

Mr. Syed Muhammad Suleman Gul, PMPKL’s Manager of Social Sustainability, stated, “Since 2021, we have trained over 3,000 children, preparing them for self-employment and entrepreneurship. Many trainees pursue self-employment as adults, thanks to our tailored curriculum that meets labor market needs.”

Mr. Abid Javed, Head of Leaf at PMPKL, added, “Our project promotes sustainability and has a positive impact on the community. The success stories of our trainees highlight the importance of skills training. This initiative prevents child labor and equips children for today’s job market. We are committed to fostering a sustainable business environment in Pakistan.”