Government Launches Ambitious Project: 10,000 e-Rozgar Centers to Boost Freelancer Opportunities

In a significant announcement, the Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Dr. Umar Saif, unveiled plans for a groundbreaking project set to kick off on January 11. The initiative aims to roll out 10,000 e-Rozgar Centers across the country, each equipped with cutting-edge facilities tailored to cater to the needs of freelancers and start-ups.

Dr. Umar Saif emphasized the historical importance of this undertaking, addressing the challenges faced by approximately 1.5 million freelancers currently lacking suitable workspaces. He stressed the urgency, stating, "Providing freelancers with the necessary tools and an enabling environment to thrive in the digital landscape is imperative."

The minister highlighted that the collaborative e-Rozgar Centers would not only benefit freelancers but also contribute to increased investment in Pakistan, thereby generating new employment opportunities.

Encouraging the youth to embrace entrepreneurship, Dr. Umar Saif underscored the potential for individuals to earn higher monthly incomes through e-Rozgar. Additionally, he unveiled another project starting on January 7, introducing a standardized test for IT graduates through the Higher Education Commission. The purpose of this test is to assess their skills and provide successful candidates with internships in the IT industry.

Dr. Umar Saif stressed the importance of this initiative, noting that out of the 75,000 IT graduates produced annually by Pakistani universities, only 3,000 are currently deemed eligible for employment in IT companies.

Expressing optimism, Dr. Umar Saif mentioned that with the recent allowance by the State Bank of Pakistan for IT companies to retain 50% of their receipts in dollar accounts, IT exports are expected to soar to $4 billion.

Underlining the government’s commitment to empowering the youth with information technology skills, Dr. Umar Saif stated, "The IT and telecom ministry is actively engaged in projects aimed at creating employment opportunities for young individuals, propelling Pakistan forward in the field of education by providing IT skills and empowering a skilled workforce."