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Pakistan Launches First Skills Impact Bond Backed by Rs1 Billion Guarantee

The three-year pilot links investor returns to verified training-to-employment outcomes under a government guarantee.

Overview

  • A signing ceremony finalized investor and issuer agreements, positioning NAVTTC, the Bank of Punjab, private investors and development partners including FCDO to begin implementation.
  • The financing model moves away from input-based public spending toward outcome-focused social investment under the human capital strategy led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
  • Payments are tied to measurable results for each trainee, including certification, job placement and at least six months of employment retention.
  • Programme design incorporates gender inclusion, with a British Asian Trust–led recommendation that 40% of trainees be women welcomed by the finance minister.
  • Officials outlined a path to scale in which future tranches may link repayments to a portion of trainee salaries and reduce reliance on sovereign guarantees, with potential to export certified talent.