Syed Aminul Haq, the Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, has announced a partnership with Google to provide 45,000 scholarships, with the number increasing to 450,000 next year. At least 40% of these scholarships will be reserved for women.
The Minister made this announcement during his speech at the Startups for Industries and IT Exports conference organized by the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI). He mentioned that initially, Google only offered 15,000 scholarships, but the number was increased after discussions.
Additionally, the Minister highlighted the establishment of a $1.6 million gaming and animation building at NED University to support and strengthen this industry.
Various dignitaries, including KATI Vice Patron Zubair Chhaya, Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan, and representatives from universities, National Incubation Centres, students, teachers, and start-ups, attended the event.
Minister Aminul Haque also mentioned that the IT Ministry is working on a 2050 vision and highlighted the increase in funding for Pakistan’s IT sector. He further noted the removal of regulatory duty on mobile phones and the successful establishment of a mobile phone manufacturing industry in the country.
Other speakers at the event emphasized the importance of research and development in the IT sector and the need for professional training aligned with industry requirements. They also called for the elimination of duties on machinery and IT products to facilitate further growth in the sector.
Overall, the conference showcased the progress made in Pakistan’s IT industry, with an increase in exports and efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry needs.
