Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar inaugurates 39 e-Rozgaar centers in Islamabad, kickstarting a nationwide project to establish 10,000 centers. IT Minister Dr. Umar Saif unveils ambitious plans, addressing freelancer challenges and propelling Pakistan’s IT sector with initiatives like a digital payment gateway and the availability of 5G spectrum.
Ignite, through the co-working spaces project, is set to support 25,000 freelancers in Pakistan with an innovative subsidy model, utilizing Rs. 1 billion from the Public Sector Development Program. This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower freelancers by channeling funds to co-working space owners, facilitating the creation of essential facilities and fostering a dynamic freelance landscape.
Dr. Umar Saif introduces the Rs. 2 billion Pakistan Startup Fund, offering crucial financial aid to startups with 30% support from the fund and 70% from venture capitalists, aiming to foster innovation and growth in Pakistan’s tech landscape. The initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to supporting over 4,000 startups through National Incubation Centers and attracting global investments.
The Pakistani government, in collaboration with telecom operators, is set to launch an installment plan, easing the financial strain for freelancers and content creators to acquire smartphones affordably. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to technological advancement, including the upcoming implementation of 5G, while promoting responsible spending habits.
Islamabad takes a green leap with the launch of a fleet of Chinese electric buses, signaling a shift towards eco-friendly public transport. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) plans to deploy 30 such buses on 13 routes, integrating seamlessly with existing metro routes and emphasizing sustainability with the construction of electric charging stations.
In 2023, Pakistani startups grappled with a substantial 70% funding drop to $70 million amid political and economic challenges, but a promising uptick in Q4, securing $38.6 million across 15 deals, fuels optimism for 2024’s expected rebound after the general elections and structural reforms.
Caretaker IT Minister Dr. Umar Saif announces successful tech initiatives, enabling freelancers’ remittances via PayPal and paving the way for 5G in Pakistan. He urges the incoming government to sustain digital progress.
The Pakistani government, through an agreement, has enabled freelancers to route remittances via PayPal, a move set to boost the country’s tech profile. Additionally, a policy allowing IT companies to retain 50% of export revenue in dollars has led to a notable 13% monthly increase in export earnings.
Dr. Umar Saif, Pakistan’s Minister for Information Technology, is set to launch 10,000 E-Rozgar centers on January 11, providing essential support for the country’s 1.5 million freelancers. Additionally, a new initiative introducing standardized tests for IT graduates aims to bridge the gap between available skills and employment opportunities in the IT sector.
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