The Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) Technical Institute, run by The Hunar Foundation (THF) in Nokkundi, celebrated the graduation of over 416 trainees, showcasing a significant achievement in youth skill development and employment opportunities in Balochistan.
The six-month vocational programs trained 278 male and 138 female graduates, highlighting the institute’s commitment to gender inclusion and community empowerment. The graduation ceremony was attended by office bearers of the Community Development Committee Nokkundi, families, students, and senior representatives from THF and RDMC.
Empowering Youth Through Vocational Training
Speakers at the ceremony emphasized the importance of technical skills for sustainable development. THF Project Director Nadeem Manzoor congratulated the graduates, highlighting the long-term impact of the THF–RDMC partnership on local communities.
RDMC Community Investment Team Lead Essa Tahir said, “Skill is very important, and we are proud seeing our graduates contributing to one of Pakistan’s most important mining projects.”
THF CEO Tahir Javed reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to cultural inclusion, while RDMC Head of HR Hanno Staden addressed the graduates in Balochi, respecting local traditions.
Graduates shared personal stories of success, demonstrating how vocational training has improved employment opportunities and livelihoods. The ceremony concluded with certificate distribution and a traditional Balochi dance, celebrating achievement and community pride.
Reko Diq Mining Project’s Impact on Employment
The Reko Diq Mining Project has already positively impacted employment in the region. Approximately 75% of RDMC’s permanent workforce comes from Balochistan, with 65% from Chagai district. Women employees now make up 14% of the workforce, a historic milestone in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Through the International Graduate Development Program (IGDP), 18 engineers from 11 districts, including women, have received training in Argentina and Zambia.
The construction phase from 2025–2028 is expected to create 7,500 direct jobs, while operational phases will sustain 3,500 long-term positions. Over 25,000 indirect jobs will benefit small businesses involved in logistics, catering, maintenance, and other services.
Community Investment and Social Development
Since 2022, RDMC has invested $5.3 million in community programs focused on education, technical training, healthcare, clean water, and mentorship. Seven schools now serve over 400 students, while 577 youth have been trained to improve employment prospects.
More than 114 participants, including women from remote villages such as Humai and Durbin Chah, are being prepared for professional careers. Dedicated women’s mentorship sessions are also paving the way for employment in mining, marking a groundbreaking step for rural Balochistan.
Reko Diq: Skills, Employment, and Hope
In contrast to extremist threats in the region, initiatives like the Reko Diq Technical Institute provide skills, livelihoods, and hope, proving the trans-formative power of education and vocational training in rural Balochistan.
