Pakistan launches first e-Rozgaar centre to boost IT exports, freelancing

ISLAMABAD: In a significant stride towards fostering the digital landscape, Pakistan officially unveiled its inaugural e-Rozgaar Centre, a collaborative effort with Excel Consulting Services.

The center, inaugurated by the Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Dr Umar Saif, aims to propel the country’s IT exports by an estimated $10 billion annually through a strategic public-private partnership.

The newly launched e-Rozgaar Centre in Islamabad features 100 workstations, fully equipped with essential amenities tailored for freelancers.

Dr Umar Saif highlighted the potential for expansion, envisioning an eventual increase to 300 workstations. He highlighted that the establishment of this centre marked the initiation of a broader project, targeting the setup of 10,000 e-Rozgaar centres nationwide.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr Umar Saif expressed his satisfaction in fulfilling a commitment to the people and providing a platform for both existing and upcoming freelancers to work independently at competitive rates.

He stressed that these centres would significantly enhance the capacity and income of freelancers, contributing to the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy.

The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) will play a pivotal role in supporting freelancers by providing necessary technical assistance for the e-Rozgaar Centers.

Dr Umar Saif assured that progress was underway, with e-Rozgaar centres in other cities nearing completion.

Addressing the strides made in the information technology and telecommunications sector during the caretaker tenure, Dr Umar Saif credited the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for enabling crucial decisions.

He emphasised the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the digital future, both through domestic efforts and international recognition of Pakistan as a technology destination.

As the nation eagerly awaits the formation of a new government, Dr Umar Saif expressed optimism that the momentum gained in promoting Pakistan’s digital economy will continue through the implementation of a comprehensive roadmap for digital Pakistan.

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