In Islamabad, the Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Dr. Umar Saif, has unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at supporting freelancers within the country. According to Dr. Saif, the government is gearing up to introduce interest-free loans specifically tailored for freelancers, signaling a significant boost for the burgeoning freelance community. The scheme, as outlined by the IT minister, will be a collaborative effort with international companies to ensure ample funding.
Furthermore, Dr. Umar Saif revealed plans to enhance the IT landscape in Pakistan. He stressed that IT apprenticeships will become mandatory in universities, promoting skill development and preparing students for the digital workforce. Additionally, standardized tests will be administered for IT graduates to ensure the quality of talent entering the industry.
On the connectivity front, the government is embarking on an initiative to introduce highway national roaming within two months.
This initiative is expected to provide consumers with the convenience of seamlessly switching between different mobile networks, thereby enhancing connectivity and accessibility for all.
In a bid to attract global investors, Dr. Umar Saif disclosed that steps are being taken to establish a venture capital platform for startups. Furthermore, the government has ambitious plans to set up 5,000 joint e-working centers for freelancers, a move that promises to create millions of employment opportunities across the nation.
Positive discussions with Caretaker Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar on a 5-point IT sector agenda indicate a concerted effort to bolster Pakistan's technological landscape and economic prospects.