For thousands of families registered under BISP, finding stable income opportunities has remained a major challenge. Limited education, lack of skills, and unemployment often trap households in long-term financial hardship. To address this gap, the government has officially launched the BISP Hunarmand Program, focusing on skills instead of short-term relief.
Inspired by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s words — “ہنر آپ کا سرمایہ ہے” — this program aims to turn beneficiaries into skilled, employable individuals who can earn with dignity.
What Is the BISP Hunarmand Program
The Benazir Hunarmand Program is a skills development initiative under the Benazir Income Support Programme. Unlike cash assistance programs, this scheme focuses on free technical and professional training, combined with financial support during training.
The objective is simple: equip BISP-registered families with practical skills that lead to employment or self-employment.
Key Benefits Offered Under the Program
The Hunarmand Program provides multiple benefits to ensure participants can complete training without financial stress.
Main Benefits Include
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Free technical and professional training
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Monthly stipend during the training period
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Graduation bonus after successful course completion
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Official certificate recognized for employment
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Job placement and employment opportunities
These benefits make the program more than just training — it is a complete pathway toward income generation.
Available Courses and Skill Areas
Training is offered in multiple high-demand sectors to ensure participants gain skills that are relevant in today’s job market.
Courses Offered
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Information Technology (IT)
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Health and medical support services
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Hotel and hospitality management
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Construction and technical trades
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Beauty services
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Fashion and textile-related skills
These courses are designed to match both local and national employment needs.
Training Duration
The duration of training depends on the selected skill.
Course Duration
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3 to 6 months, depending on the trade and complexity
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Includes practical and hands-on training
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Structured assessments before completion
This short duration allows participants to enter the workforce quickly.
Who Is Eligible for the BISP Hunarmand Program
Eligibility is strictly linked with BISP registration to ensure the program benefits deserving families.
Eligible Individuals
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BISP beneficiaries
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Family members of registered BISP beneficiaries
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Individuals meeting basic entry requirements of the selected course
Important Reminder
Only BISP-eligible households or their family members can apply. General public registration is not allowed under this scheme.
How Registration Works
Registration is carried out through official BISP-linked platforms and partner training institutes.
General Registration Flow
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Verification of BISP status
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Selection of available course
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Enrollment at designated training center
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Start of training with stipend eligibility
Applicants are advised to rely only on official BISP channels and avoid agents.
Why This Program Matters
Unlike short-term financial aid, the Hunarmand Program focuses on long-term economic independence. By combining skills, certification, and financial support, the program helps beneficiaries:
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Reduce dependence on aid
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Gain employable skills
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Start small businesses
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Secure sustainable income sources
This approach reflects a shift from welfare to empowerment.
Common Questions – Clear Answers
Is the training really free?
Yes. There is no training fee.
Is a stipend guaranteed?
Yes, eligible trainees receive a monthly stipend during training.
Can women apply?
Yes. Women are strongly encouraged to apply, especially in IT, health, beauty, and textile courses.
Is this only for youth?
No. Eligibility depends on course criteria, not age alone.
Conclusion
The BISP Hunarmand Program is a major step toward empowering low-income families through skills rather than dependency. By offering free technical training, monthly stipends, certification, and employment opportunities, the program turns Benazir Bhutto’s vision into practical action.
For BISP beneficiaries, this is not just a training opportunity — it is a chance to build a future where skills become income and dignity replaces dependency.
