Exploring Skill Gaps and Workforce Development Strategies in Gilgit-Baltistan's Tourism & Hospitality Sector

This research study investigates the critical workforce challenges faced by the tourism and hospitality industry in Gilgit-Baltistan. The primary objectives are to examine the skill gaps within the existing workforce, explore the strategies adopted by the sector to meet workforce requirements and examine the effectiveness of current training programs offered by GB's training institutes in addressing these skill deficiencies. This study aims to provide actionable insights for enhancing the workforce capabilities of Gilgit-Baltistan’s tourism and hospitality sector through a comprehensive analysis of workforce capabilities, recruitment practices, and training programs offered by various institutes. Initial findings indicate significant skill gaps obstructing the industry’s performance and growth, varied and often short-term strategies for workforce fulfillment, and training programs that require significant improvements to meet industry needs. These findings are expected to lay the foundation for a comprehensive survey aimed at generalizing results and offering detailed recommendations to develop a more skilled and effective workforce, ultimately supporting the sustainable growth of GB's vital tourism and hospitality industry.