ISLAMABAD, Oct 12 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to develop Daanish IT Park Islamabad into a world-class technology hub, with a focus on building a modern IT ecosystem through stronger collaboration between industry and academia.
Chairing a meeting on the project, the prime minister said the government would continue efforts to equip Pakistani youth with advanced skills in information technology, artificial intelligence and FinTech while creating new opportunities for technology entrepreneurs.
He directed the Ministry of Information Technology to prepare a comprehensive case study of the project and called for Daanish IT Park to be operationalised in partnership with global technology companies.
The prime minister also ordered a third-party audit of the project to assess progress and ensure effective implementation.
Focus on IT exports, startups and investment
Officials briefed the meeting on plans to build a broader technology ecosystem aimed at increasing IT exports and attracting investment into Pakistan’s digital economy.
The meeting was informed that 50 private buildings had been upgraded into Software Technology Parks under the Pakistan Software Export Board.
Authorities also said eight incubation centres had been established across the country to support startups, while 105 co-working spaces were currently facilitating IT professionals.
The government is also approaching international technology companies to play a role in operationalising Daanish IT Park Islamabad.
Academia-industry collaboration at centre of plan
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the park should become more than a standalone infrastructure project and evolve into a centre linking universities, technology companies, startups and skilled professionals.
The government wants the project to support innovation, improve access to advanced digital skills and create a stronger pipeline of technology talent for local and international markets.
Artificial intelligence, FinTech and other emerging technologies are expected to remain central to the government’s skills-development strategy.
Government seeks larger role for global tech firms
The prime minister’s direction to involve global technology companies reflects the government’s broader effort to connect Pakistan’s IT sector with international expertise, investment and market opportunities.
A third-party audit has also been ordered to provide an independent assessment of the project and help ensure that development targets are met.
Federal Ministers Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Musadik Masood Malik, Ahad Khan Cheema and Attaullah Tarar attended the meeting, along with Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kiyani and senior government officials.