PM Shehbaz Unveils New IT Plan to Boost Digital Pakistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially launched a new Information Technology (IT) programme aimed at fast-tracking Pakistan’s digital transformation and creating more opportunities for skilled youth across the country.

The programme, announced by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), focuses on building a knowledge-based economy, enhancing IT exports, and helping young Pakistanis develop digital skills that meet global standards.

Experience & Real-World Relevance

This initiative builds on Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to expand its freelancing, e-commerce, and software development sectors  fields where thousands of young Pakistanis are already earning income and contributing to the economy.

Local IT professionals and training institutes have welcomed the programme, noting that government-backed support will help freelancers access better online platforms and more stable payment systems.

A Lahore-based freelancer, Ayesha Khan, said, “Government investment in IT education can help freelancers like us gain international recognition and attract foreign clients.”

Expertise & Policy Framework

According to the PMO, a comprehensive IT policy framework has been prepared under the prime minister’s directives. It focuses on modern training, investment incentives, and partnerships with private tech companies to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

Industry experts believe this step could strengthen Pakistan’s standing among top global IT outsourcing destinations. “If executed efficiently, this could be a game-changer for Pakistan’s digital exports,” said Salman Ahmed, a senior technology analyst at a Karachi-based consulting firm.

Authoritativeness  Data & Official Context

Pakistan is already one of the top five countries globally in freelance growth, according to data from Payoneer’s Global Gig Economy Index. The government’s new IT programme aims to double freelance revenue and expand digital infrastructure across smaller cities.

Under the new policy:

• Specialized training centres will offer certified courses in coding, AI, cloud computing, and digital marketing.
  

• A national e-commerce support network will be launched to help small businesses sell internationally.
  

• Partnerships with leading software houses will promote export-oriented development.
  
  

These measures align with the Pakistan Vision 2025 framework, which places strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and youth empowerment.

Trustworthiness Verified Information & Transparency

All details about the initiative were confirmed by official statements from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of IT and Telecom. The programme’s focus on upskilling, job creation, and entrepreneurship reflects Pakistan’s broader efforts to achieve sustainable economic stability.

Furthermore, the government has promised transparent implementation through progress reports and performance reviews published quarterly on official portals. This approach aims to rebuild trust between public institutions and the private tech community.

Economic Impact and Long-Term Goals

The new IT initiative is expected to:

• Generate hundreds of thousands of new digital jobs.
  

• Boost IT exports beyond $10 billion within the next few years.
  

• Encourage foreign investment in Pakistan’s growing technology ecosystem.
  
  

Economists say the programme will not only enhance digital inclusion but also help stabilize Pakistan’s balance of payments through technology based exports.

Empowering Youth and Innovation

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Pakistan’s youth are the backbone of the economy and deserve world class opportunities. “We want to make Pakistan a regional technology hub where our youth lead innovation and represent the country globally,” he said during the launch ceremony.

The initiative will also include a Digital Skills Scholarship Fund to support talented students in rural and underprivileged areas

Public-Private Collaboration and Global Partnerships

The government plans to strengthen collaboration between public universities, tech incubators, and private IT firms. Global companies are being invited to partner with Pakistani startups and provide mentorship and technical support.

Officials also confirmed that discussions are underway with leading international organizations to introduce AI-based learning modules and remote job integration programmes.

Why This Matters for Pakistan’s Future

By focusing on digital literacy, innovation, and economic empowerment, this initiative aligns Pakistan with global digital trends. As more countries transition to AI-driven economies, Pakistan’s ability to produce skilled IT professionals will determine its place in the international market.

If implemented effectively, the new programme could turn Pakistan into a South Asian technology hub, supporting exports, employment, and financial inclusion.

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