Google’s Pakistan office a major boost for tech talent: Shaza Fatima

WEB DESK: Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja said that the government is taking steps to nurture local talent in the technology sector and deepen partnerships with global tech companies.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, she said more than 17,000 teams registered for the “AI Sikho 2026” programme, of which 25% were women.

“Google’s office opening in Pakistan is a significant development for the country’s tech talent,” she said, adding that it is expected to further strengthen both the local and global technology ecosystem.

Khawaja said locally manufactured Chromebooks made in Pakistan would be encouraged for export to regional countries. “Collaboration with Google and other international technology leaders will usher in a new era” for the sector, she said.

She added that around 50,000 developers have been trained across various fields, including gaming and animation, alongside masterclasses held on app development and design. Under the “Digital Safar” initiative, she said, journalists have also received training on topics including online safety.

“This partnership with Google will help strengthen Pakistan’s tech ecosystem, build the capacity of local talent, and attract global tech companies to invest and establish a business presence in the country,” Khawaja said.

On the economic front, she said IT exports have grown by nearly 18% compared to last year, with July alone recording $417 million in IT exports. “IT exports hold particular significance for Pakistan since they carry a trade surplus of roughly 85 to 86%,” she said, noting that the sector does not require heavy imported machinery.