Islamabad: The National Assembly was updated on the government's proactive steps to align with current and future market demands in Artificial Intelligence, information technology, and digital skills. This information was shared by Parliamentary Secretary of Information Technology, Sabheen Ghoury, during a session in the House.
According to Radio Pakistan, Ghoury revealed that ninety percent of startups have become operational in Software Technology Parks, with women leading around thirty-six percent of these enterprises. She emphasized the significant registration of over four point five million individuals in the DigiSkills Program since its inception in 2018, signifying the program's broad reach and impact. The Ministry of Information and Technology is also engaging with international partners to bolster capacity building in the sector.
Ghoury further disclosed that Pakistan's IT exports have witnessed a remarkable increase, achieving a milestone of three point eight billion dollars in the last fiscal year. This growth has been largely driven by a flourishing community of freelancers, whose contributions have become essential to the digital economy. Additionally, she highlighted the success of this year's 5G spectrum auction, which is expected to serve as a digital highway, further enhancing IT exports.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry discussed the Benazir Hunarmand Programme under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), which aims to empower women and their families by providing vocational skills aligned with market demands, ultimately enhancing employment opportunities.
Furthermore, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar addressed concerns regarding the increase in educational fees within the Islamabad Capital Territory, assuring that strict actions will be enforced against any unjustified hikes.
The National Assembly session adjourned with plans to reconvene tomorrow at 11:30 a.m.