The Prime Minister’s Digital Hub, a government initiative aimed at promoting digital transformation through youth empowerment, has decided to extend its facilitations to the freelance community. This move is part of its broader objective to raise a skilled digital workforce within the country to drive the national economy.
Meeting Between PM’s Digital Hub Chairman and PAFLA Chairman
Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan recently met with Chairman Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Ibrahim Amin in Islamabad. During the meeting, Khan highlighted the government’s initiatives to launch various skill development and capacity-building programs for youth, focusing on creating a robust digital workforce to strengthen the economy.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to establishing 250 e-Rozgar Centres across Pakistan, designed to support skilled professionals, including blue-collar, white-collar, and other emerging sectors.
Pakistan’s Digital Youth Hub: Empowering the Next Generation
The Digital Youth Hub, developed through a partnership between the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) and UNICEF, connects young people with opportunities in jobs, education, and entrepreneurship. This initiative empowers youth to explore, grow, and lead their future in the digital economy.
PAFLA Chairman Highlights Freelancing Potential in Pakistan
Chairman PAFLA Ibrahim Amin discussed the growing role of digital and freelance workers in Pakistan, emphasizing the increasing opportunities for skilled youth and their contributions to the national economy.
He noted that over 2.3 million freelancers are currently active in Pakistan, generating over half a billion dollars in foreign exchange. However, he stressed that with government and stakeholder collaboration, this number, along with freelancers’ economic contributions, could be doubled.
Key Recommendations for Policymakers
- Introduce international payment gateways to facilitate freelancers and remote workers.
- Provide incentives for freelancers through commercial banks to promote a cashless economy.
Stakeholders Present in the Meeting
Officials from the following organizations attended the meeting:
- Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)
- Ignite (National Technology Fund)
- Ministry of IT and Telecommunication
- Universal Service Fund (USF)