pk-china-user By Tahir Ali
The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has successfully concluded a six-month training program in digital marketing, freelancing, and e-commerce for youth belonging to project-affected communities in Upper Kohistan under the Dasu Hydropower Project (DHPP), the authority announced on Tuesday.
The program was conducted from July 2025 to January 2026 at Government Centennial Model High School, Dasu, in collaboration with the Abdullah Institute of Technology, Abbottabad. Its objective was to equip local youth with practical, market-oriented digital skills and encourage self-employment opportunities.
According to the statement, the training covered digital marketing techniques, social media promotion, content development, online advertising, freelancing platforms, and e-commerce business models. Participants were guided on building online brands, accessing freelancing markets, and managing e-commerce businesses effectively.
A certificate distribution ceremony was organized at the school to mark the program’s completion. Officials from NESPAK attended the event, while WAPDA Deputy Director Riaz Ahmed graced the occasion as chief guest. All 80 participants received certificates.
In his concluding remarks, Ahmed emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating that skill-based training programs are essential for the future and play a significant role in youth empowerment and sustainable development.
The initiative underscores WAPDA’s ongoing commitment to community development, capacity building, and the socio-economic uplift of communities affected by major hydropower projects.
Situated on the Indus River, the Dasu Hydropower Project is a major run-of-river initiative that will ultimately produce 4,320 MW in two phases. Currently under construction, Stage I will contribute 2,160 MW through six generating units of 360 MW each, with an estimated annual generation of 12,222 GWh.
