In a bold move to empower the youth of Pakistan, Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has announced the establishment of e-Rozgar centres across the country. The announcement was made during the National Youth Convention, where the minister emphasized the significance of these centres in fostering digital literacy and creating employment opportunities for the younger generation.

The e-Rozgar centres, to be set up through public-private partnerships, aim to provide a robust platform for skill development and job creation. Minister Shaza Fatima highlighted the importance of youth in the nation’s progress, stating, “The youth are the backbone of Pakistan, and their role in the country’s development is crucial. We must work together to ensure that they have the tools and opportunities needed to drive Pakistan forward.”

The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of the country’s youth, who make up a significant portion of the population. The minister underscored the importance of digital skills, noting that over Rs. 4 billion will be allocated this year for youth skills development. She pointed out that approximately 4.5 million young people have already benefited from the DigiSkills Program, encouraging more to take advantage of this initiative.

Shaza Fatima also highlighted the growing importance of information technology across all sectors, from the economy to national security. She emphasized that the government is focused on equipping the youth with the latest digital skills to ensure they are prepared for the future. “Information technology is the cornerstone of modern progress,” she said. “Whether it’s the economy, security, or other sectors, everything is transitioning to IT. Our youth must be at the forefront of this transformation.”

In addition to the e-Rozgar centres, the minister announced the construction of an IT Park in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Korean government. This project is expected to generate numerous job opportunities and further bolster the country’s IT sector. A second IT Park is planned for Karachi, expanding the reach of digital transformation across Pakistan.

Shaza Fatima Khawaja also addressed the importance of responsible media use, urging the youth to be mindful of the impact of fake news. She stressed that even a single piece of misinformation can damage the country’s reputation on a global scale.

The e-Rozgar centres, alongside other initiatives like the IT Parks and the DigiSkills Program, represent a comprehensive approach to empowering Pakistan’s youth. The government’s focus on digital skills development and job creation is set to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.