The United States Provides Young Graduates with Immersive Industry Exposure for Careers in the Energy Sector

Islamabad, August 1, 2024: The United States today celebrated the achievements of the second cohort of 24 diverse young leaders from the “Empower All Energy Program,” funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), at Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

The initiative enhances diversity among future energy leaders, especially women, by building their connections with public and private energy sector stakeholders and giving youth the skills to thrive. Acting Mission Director James Fleming, along with Dr. Tahir Masood, the Chairman of Islamabad Electric Supply Company’s Board of Directors, distributed certificates to engineering graduates from universities at the ceremony.

As part of its Power Sector Improvement Activity, USAID launched the “Empower All Energy Program” in 2023 to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in Pakistan’s energy sector. Already the program is bearing results. Among the first cohort of 20 graduates from 2023, more than 60 percent of the participants secured jobs and internships in the public and private energy sectors.

Reflecting on the power of inclusion in fighting climate change, Acting Mission Director James Fleming said: “To address the world’s climate crisis, we need to harness the talents of everyone. Youth from diverse backgrounds – especially young women – bring fresh perspectives, skills, and talents to climate mitigation, where innovative and sustainable clean energy solutions are needed to transform the high-emitting global energy sector.”

In addition to the program, USAID is hosting a career expo for STEM graduates to network with national and international companies to explore career opportunities.