ISLAMABAD (MNN); Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday highlighted the vital role of the information technology sector in steering Pakistan towards economic recovery, noting that the industry has shown consistent growth despite ongoing macroeconomic pressures.
Presiding over a meeting of the private sector working group on information technology, the prime minister welcomed the recommendations put forward by IT committee head Asif Peer, terming them timely and in line with the government’s reform priorities.
He acknowledged that the IT sector has continued to expand even amid challenging economic conditions and said the steady increase in IT exports was highly encouraging, reflecting the sector’s resilience and strong potential.
The prime minister said the government is actively focusing on improving technical training for the IT workforce, introducing tax facilitation measures and addressing structural hurdles to ensure sustainable growth of the industry.
He stressed that all initiatives in technical education aim to equip Pakistani youth with skills that meet international standards, enabling them to compete effectively in the global IT market as skilled and reliable professionals.
Directing authorities to take further steps, the prime minister emphasised the need to create more employment opportunities for young people, particularly through digital platforms and emerging technologies.
He also instructed relevant ministries to upgrade IT infrastructure nationwide, underlining that the success of a digital economy depends on providing citizens with affordable and reliable internet access.
During the meeting, the prime minister directed a high-level committee led by the finance minister to review the proposals presented and submit a detailed report within two weeks.
The prime minister was briefed on initiatives aimed at expanding the digital economy, boosting IT exports and implementing wide-ranging reforms, including the introduction of a data-driven governance framework.
Participants from the private sector praised ongoing government measures such as efforts to enhance export market access, complete digitisation of the Pakistan Software Export Board, the e-Rozgar programme and steps to strengthen the startup and innovation ecosystem.
