KARACHI, August 29: Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi has described Pakistani freelancers as an emerging digital workforce that is contributing to the national economy, generating foreign exchange and promoting a positive image of Pakistan internationally.
He made the remarks while addressing the first National Recognition Ceremony organised by the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), where he served as chief guest.
Nearly 3 Million Pakistanis Working as Freelancers
Governor Nehal Hashmi said Pakistan has nearly 3 million full-time and part-time freelancers, who earned more than $1.76 billion through digital services during the last financial year.
He said the country’s large youth population could play a significant role in future economic and social development, stressing the importance of quality education, modern IT skills, entrepreneurship and market-oriented training.
The governor said the federal government, in collaboration with the Governor House, has launched several skills-development initiatives for young people in Sindh to equip them with modern, market-relevant skills and improve their employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Focus on IT Exports and Digital Economy
Hashmi said Pakistan’s digital economy offers significant opportunities for young people and urged them to develop skills aligned with emerging technologies to compete in international markets.
He also referred to the Prime Minister’s vision of increasing Pakistan’s IT exports to $25 billion by 2030, asking young participants to play their role in achieving the target. Youth attending the ceremony responded by raising their hands and pledging to contribute to the goal.
The governor also highlighted the Digital Youth Hub, launched under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, which provides opportunities in education, skills development, employment and entrepreneurship.
Experts Call for AI and Emerging Technology Skills
Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Fahd Haroon said the government was working to provide greater support and facilities to help young people participate in the digital economy and expand freelancing.
Coordinator of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Sindh Dr Fahad Shafiq said efforts were underway to provide young people with modern digital and market-oriented skills while creating additional employment and freelancing opportunities.
PAFLA Chairman Ibrahim Amin described Pakistani freelancers as the country’s “silent heroes,” citing their contribution to exports and foreign exchange earnings.
PAFLA President and CEO Dr Imran Batada said traditional experience and skills alone may not be sufficient in the era of artificial intelligence. He encouraged young people to develop expertise in areas including AI, data analytics and cybersecurity.
45 Freelancers Recognised
The ceremony brought together representatives from the IT industry, digital economy, education and business sectors.
Governor Nehal Hashmi presented shields to 45 outstanding Pakistani freelancers in recognition of their achievements, international services and contributions to the country’s digital economy. Among the recipients were Sajid Jameel, Khadija Shehzad, Waqar and Zeeshan.
Other speakers highlighted the capabilities of Pakistani youth and called for greater efforts to promote freelancing and connect young professionals with the global digital marketplace.
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