I S L A M A B A D : President Asif Ali Zardari will launch Hunarmand Portal of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) on the occasion of birth anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto on June 21.

The Benazir Hunarmand Programme (BHP) aims to turn skill development into a pathway for poverty graduation and economic inclusion. In a significant move toward gender equality, 50pc of all trainees will be women, reaffirming BISP`s commitment to women`s empowerment, said an official press release issued on Tuesday.

`In a major move toward sustainable poverty alleviation, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is set to launch the BHP-a first-of-its-kind skills development initiative for BISP beneficiaries and their families,` it added.

To prepare for the launch, BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid and Secretary Amer Ali Ahmad on Tuesday hosted a high-level consultative workshop at BISP headquarters.

The event brought together members of the `Friends of BISP` platform, including representatives from the chambers of commerce and industry, development partners like WFP, WHO, GIZ, and leading NGOsandINGOs.

Participants warmly welcomed the initiativeand pledged strong support to make it a success. Commitments included offering employment opportunities, internships, and industry linkages to graduates of the Benazir Hunarmand Programme.

The programme will be officially launched by President Zardari on June 21 to pay homage to Benazir Bhutto, who was the architect of BISP with a cause to help needy people with dignity, empowerment, and socialjustice.

`BISP is evolving from a financial assistance programme into a powerful platform for empowerment,` said Chairperson Rubina Khalid. `Through the Benazir Hunarmand Programme, we are equipping people with the skills they need to thrive in the job market and lead independent, dignified lives. As Shaheed Mohtarma BenazirBhuttobelieved, skill is your true asset, she added.

She said artisans will also be part of the programme. In addition to training, BISP will help them connect with markets and buyers to promote and sell their handmade goods, ensuring their crafts translate into livelihoods.

Secretary Amer Ali Ahmad reaffirmed BISP`s commitment to inclusive and peoplecentered development.

He appreciated the active participation of stakeholders and emphasized the need for continued collaboration to ensure the programme creates real opportunities for benefi-ciaries.

`This historic programme marks a transformative shift in BISP`smission-from providing immediate relief to building long-term resilience,` he added.