The Digital Skills Training Program initiative by the Ministry of Information Technology and Communications provides a platform to equip youth with cutting-edge digital skills needed to pursue online employment opportunities.
Program Coordinator Umar Akbar, in a conversation with WealthPK, said that the post-corona era is characterized by increased global interconnectivity through online networks.
“Against this backdrop, there is a huge demand for digital skills from global companies. Digital skills programs aim to create ample employment potential for young people,” he said. He said initiatives such as digital skills programs play a vital role in driving growth in IT services exports.
According to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the country achieved a revenue of $1.523 billion through the provision of various IT services to different countries during the first seven months of fiscal year 2022-23. This statistic implies a growth rate of 2.38% compared to 2022. Umar said the program focuses on skills such as digital marketing, virtual assistance, ghostwriting, WordPress, affiliate marketing, data analysis, QuickBooks, business intelligence, graphic design, and search engine optimization (SEO). said.
“Given the sizeable youth population, which constitutes nearly 60% of the total population, the main objective of this program is to not only create employment opportunities but also to foster digital literacy across the country,” he said. insisted.
According to a Ministry of Science report, the digital services sector contributes almost 1% to the gross domestic product (GDP) of $3.5 billion in absolute terms and is growing rapidly.
“This initiative aims to provide young people with free online training to equip them with in-demand digital skills to become successful freelancers and entrepreneurs. culture and further encourage entrepreneurial efforts in the country,” Umar said.
The program coordinator said the government needs to make internet facilities widely available across the country for the program to be effective. “Digital training programs of this type have the potential to positively impact the labor market, drive innovation and make a significant contribution to the overall economy,” he added.
