The AJK Graduate Trainee Program for Engineers 2026 is set to create new career opportunities for fresh engineering graduates. Launched in collaboration with the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), this initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world engineering practice across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
This program is designed to enhance employability, build technical confidence, and prepare young engineers for the evolving demands of Pakistan’s engineering sector.
What Is the AJK Graduate Trainee Program for Engineers?
The Graduate Trainee Program (GTP) in AJK is a structured, supervised training initiative introduced under the PEC Graduate Engineer Trainee (GET) Placement Program. It allows newly graduated engineers to gain hands-on field experience within government engineering departments.
Key Purpose of the Program
- Reduce the skills gap between theory and practice
- Improve employability of engineering graduates
- Strengthen public sector technical capacity
- Develop industry-ready engineers
This initiative closely follows the “house job” model used for medical graduates, making it one of the most practical engineering training programs in Pakistan.
PEC and AJK Government Collaboration Explained
The program was officially launched after the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between:
- Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC)
- Planning and Development Department, Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Officials Present at the MoU Signing
- Engr. Muhammad Sohail Khan – Head Corporate Affairs Unit, PEC
- Atif Rahman – Additional Chief Secretary (Development), AJK
- Engr. Waseem Nazir – Chairman, PEC
- Kushal Khan – Chief Secretary, AJK
- Engr. Khadim Hussain Bhatti – Registrar, PEC
This partnership reflects a strong commitment to professional engineering development in AJK.
Departments Participating in the Graduate Trainee Program
Under the agreement, graduate engineers will be placed in key government engineering departments across AJK.
Major Departments Included
| Department Name | Training Focus |
|---|---|
| Central Design Office (CDO) | Structural & Design Engineering |
| Communication & Works (Highways) | Road & Infrastructure Projects |
| Physical Planning & Housing | Urban Development |
| Public Health Engineering | Water & Sanitation |
| Planning & Development Department | Project Planning |
| Electricity Department AJK | Power Distribution |
| Power Development Organization | Energy Projects |
| Machinery Division (PWD) | Mechanical Operations |
| IT Department AJK | Digital & IT Infrastructure |
This wide departmental exposure ensures multi-disciplinary learning for trainee engineers.
Program Structure and Training Duration
The PEC Graduate Engineer Trainee Program follows a six-month structured training cycle.
Training Breakdown
- 5 Months: Field-based technical training
- 1 Month: Soft skills & professional development
Soft Skills Training Includes
- Communication skills
- Project documentation
- Workplace ethics
- Leadership & teamwork
- Professional engineering practices
This balance makes the program more than just technical—it builds complete professionals.
Why the AJK Graduate Trainee Program Matters in 2026
1. Rising Unemployment Among Engineering Graduates
Pakistan produces thousands of engineers annually, yet many struggle to find jobs due to lack of experience. This program directly addresses that challenge.
2. Industry-Ready Skill Development
Graduates gain real-world exposure to:
- Government projects
- Infrastructure planning
- Power and energy systems
- Public sector engineering workflows
3. Strengthening AJK’s Development Capacity
Trained engineers contribute more efficiently to:
- Infrastructure development
- Public service delivery
- Long-term regional planning
Chairman PEC’s Vision for the GET Program
According to Engr. Waseem Nazir, Chairman PEC:
“The GET Program is designed to enhance employability, strengthen technical competence, and prepare young engineers for evolving industry needs.”
This vision aligns with global engineering standards and workforce development strategies.
How the Program Benefits Fresh Engineering Graduates
Major Benefits
- Real project exposure
- Government department experience
- Skill enhancement certification
- Increased employability
- Career clarity and confidence
Who Can Apply?
- Fresh engineering graduates
- PEC-registered engineers
- Graduates seeking public-sector experience
(Eligibility criteria may vary based on PEC announcements.)
Comparison: GET Program vs Traditional Engineering Internships
| Feature | GET Program | Traditional Internship |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 Months | 1–3 Months |
| Structure | Highly Structured | Often Unstructured |
| Supervision | PEC-Guided | Limited |
| Departmental Exposure | Multiple Govt Departments | Usually Private |
| Career Impact | High | Moderate |
FAQs
What is the AJK Graduate Trainee Program for Engineers?
It is a PEC-backed training program providing hands-on experience to fresh engineering graduates in AJK government departments.
How long is the PEC Graduate Engineer Trainee Program?
The program lasts six months, including field training and soft skills development.
Is the GET Program paid or unpaid?
Payment details depend on department policies; PEC usually encourages stipend-based placements.
Who is eligible for the AJK GET Program?
Fresh engineering graduates registered with PEC are typically eligible.
Why is this program important for engineers in 2026?
It improves employability, practical skills, and prepares engineers for public and private sector roles.
Conclusion
The AJK Graduate Trainee Program for Engineers 2026 marks a major milestone for Pakistan’s engineering ecosystem. Through collaboration between PEC and the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, this initiative equips young engineers with practical skills, professional confidence, and real-world exposure.
