Dr. Umar Saif, the Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications in Pakistan, has unveiled an ambitious government initiative. The plan aims to establish 5,000 collaborative E-Working Centres tailored to the needs of freelancers. These centres will serve as hubs for freelancers, providing them with essential resources and support to further enhance Pakistan’s freelance economy.
The core objective of this initiative is to offer interest-free loans to facilitate the creation of these collaborative E-Working Centres. By doing so, the government aims to empower freelancers and, in the process, generate millions of job opportunities across the nation.
In a recent statement, Minister Saif outlined the government’s commitment to attracting global investors to support startup ventures in Pakistan. He also mentioned an upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, where he will engage in discussions to further these objectives.
Minister Saif further emphasised the importance of retaining foreign currency within the IT industry. Addressing this issue is expected to repatriate overseas IT accounts to Pakistan, rebuild investor confidence, and boost the country’s foreign exchange reserves. Consequently, this will enhance the inflow of foreign currency into Pakistan and bolster the volume of IT exports.
Additionally, Minister Saif called for a redefinition of the Pakistan Software Export Board’s (PSEB) role. He proposed that the PSEB actively support IT companies in securing international clients and expanding their global presence. This strategic approach will not only promote the image of Pakistan in the international market but also harness the unique strengths of the country’s IT professionals and favourable time zones.
During the 58th meeting of the PSEB, Minister Saif underscored the need to present Pakistan’s IT and IT-enabled services products effectively to the world. He urged the PSEB to collaborate with Pakistan’s trade and commerce missions in embassies worldwide to facilitate the growth of exports by Pakistani IT companies.
Minister Saif issued a directive to the PSEB to expedite the implementation of measures aimed at training 200,000 IT professionals. The ultimate goal is to contribute $5 billion to Pakistan’s IT exports. The meeting also explored various aspects of the IT industry and strategies to increase investment in Pakistan’s burgeoning tech sector.
This initiative reflects Pakistan’s commitment to harnessing its IT potential and providing freelancers with the resources they need to thrive in the digital economy.
