Hajra Naz
The UK government plans to launch 14 freelancing hubs and enhance 3 software technology parks in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). In a collaborative effort, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Special Communications Organization (SCO), and the Gilgit-Baltistan School and Education Department have finalized two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at improving IT infrastructure and increasing freelancing prospects in the area. These partnerships are integral to a larger initiative to establish Gilgit-Baltistan as a key player in IT freelancing, digital learning, and technological advancements.
The first MoU involves collaboration between PSEB and GB’s IT Department to create Software Technology Hubs in Diamer, Ghizer, and Nagar. These hubs are designed to be innovation centers, with PSEB providing the technical support needed for the development and modernization of IT resources in the area.
The second MoU, which includes SCO, the IT Department, and the Education Department, is focused on establishing 14 IT centres within schools across the region. These centres will significantly contribute to improving digital literacy and equipping students with essential IT skills.
The signing ceremony brought together notable figures such as IT Advisor Suraiya Zaman, Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Abrar Ahmed Mirza, Sector Commander SCO Colonel Faheem, Secretary Education Akhtar Hussain Rizvi, and Secretary IT Riaz Ahmed. IT Advisor Suraiya Zaman emphasized the government’s dedication to transforming Gilgit-Baltistan into an IT hub and underlined the role of these partnerships in providing local youth with career development and freelancing opportunities through specialized training.
Gilgit-Baltistan government spokesperson Faiz Ullah Faraq noted that these efforts represent a pivotal step towards digital transformation and economic advancement in the region. The new freelancing centres, which will operate using IT labs established in 14 schools, will further empower youth and expand IT capabilities in the area, particularly by utilizing second-shift operations to offer additional freelancing prospects.
