Google has introduced several new programs designed to support and empower developers in Pakistan, furthering its commitment to the country’s rapidly growing app and gaming industry.
This announcement was made during the Think Apps 2024 event in Lahore, where over 350 top Pakistani developers, along with global and regional industry leaders, gathered to explore the future of technology in the region.
Building on the success of last year’s Think Apps event, this year’s gathering centered on helping developers harness the power of AI to innovate, grow, and sustain their ventures. A particular focus was placed on the opportunity for Pakistani developers to create high-quality, sustainable games, as well as the importance of reaching global audiences.
In line with this focus, Google has launched several new initiatives aimed at nurturing the skills of local developers and marketers.
Among these is the Game Design Masterclass, a six-month program that will bring together some of Pakistan’s most talented game developers. This initiative is designed to equip participants with the tools and knowledge needed to create top-tier games that can compete on the global stage.
Another key program is the Google Ads Academy, which will offer in-person hackathon-style workshops in Lahore and Islamabad. These workshops are specifically targeted at marketing professionals from Pakistan’s leading studios and will provide practical training on app growth strategies. By attending these sessions, participants will gain valuable insights into maximizing the reach and profitability of their apps.
Additionally, Google is expanding its AI and Cloud training through the Build with AI and Cloud AI Study Jams. These hands-on training sessions will allow developers to deepen their expertise in these crucial areas, building on the success of previous programs that have already trained over 9,300 developers in Pakistan.
These new initiatives are part of Google’s broader effort to support Pakistan’s developer community, which also includes ongoing programs like Google App Academy. To date, the academy has reached over 800 participants, offering online workshops in Urdu that cover critical marketing topics and strategies.
Beyond these educational efforts, Google is also working to connect Pakistani developers with their global counterparts by participating in major industry events.
These include the Google Developer Conference in the United States, CXO meetups across the Asia-Pacific region, and the APAC App Summit. Through these events, leaders from Pakistan’s top gaming and app studios are given the opportunity to network and collaborate with peers from around the world.
Farhan S Qureshi, Google’s Director for Pakistan, highlighted the potential of the country’s app and gaming industry for long-term growth. He emphasized that the Think Apps 2024 event is a clear indication of Google’s dedication to empowering local developers.
According to Qureshi, providing access to AI-powered products and resources is key to helping these developers create exceptional games and apps, drive profitability, and build sustainable businesses.
Qureshi also pointed out the broader economic impact of these efforts, noting that they could help improve Pakistan’s economy through digital export proceeds and create high-value jobs. He reiterated Google’s commitment to investing in Pakistan’s developer ecosystem and supporting its journey toward global success.
This initiative by Google is a significant step toward boosting the digital economy in Pakistan, offering local developers the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.
