By our staff reporter
At just 13 years old, Kashan Adnan from Karachi has made a remarkable breakthrough in Pakistan’s growing IT industry. After completing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) and chatbot development course from Saylani Welfare, he now earns an impressive Rs 500,000 per month and has already begun sharing his expertise by teaching over 100 students. His achievement highlights the immense potential of Pakistan’s youth in the digital economy and the crucial role of IT education in shaping the country’s future.
Kashan’s success is not an isolated case but rather a testament to the increasing opportunities available for young Pakistanis in the IT sector. Organizations like Saylani Welfare have been at the forefront of providing free or affordable IT training programs, equipping thousands with skills in AI, software development, and digital marketing.
Beyond Saylani, other organizations such as the Bahria National Organization (BNO), Jamaat-e-Islami’s Al-Khidmat Foundation, and the Governor of Sindh’s initiatives have contributed significantly to IT education. The Government of Sindh, in collaboration with private sector institutions, has launched various training programs to bridge the digital skills gap. BNO has introduced nationwide tech boot camps, while Jamaat-e-Islami has emphasized skill development programs, particularly in lower-income communities.
Pakistan’s IT Industry: Potential and Challenges
Pakistan’s IT industry has been experiencing rapid growth, with IT exports reaching $2.6 billion in 2023. The country has over 600,000 IT professionals, with thousands more graduating from universities and training centers each year. Experts predict that with the right policies, Pakistan’s IT exports could exceed $10 billion in the coming years.
Pakistan is emerging as a global player in software development, AI, cybersecurity, and freelancing. The country ranks among the top five freelance markets globally, with platforms like Fiverr and Upwork hosting thousands of Pakistani professionals offering their services worldwide.
However, challenges persist. Pakistan’s IT industry struggles with infrastructure limitations, inconsistent policies, and a lack of funding for startups. Power shortages, high taxation, and limited internet accessibility in rural areas further hinder progress. Additionally, brain drain remains a significant issue, with skilled professionals seeking better opportunities abroad due to economic instability and fewer high-paying local jobs.
India serves as a prime example of a successful IT industry, with its IT exports exceeding $200 billion. Cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune have become global IT hubs, attracting major corporations like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. India’s focus on government-backed initiatives, venture capital funding, and public-private partnerships has fueled its growth.
Pakistan can learn from India by investing more in tech parks, increasing IT education accessibility, and encouraging startups through government-backed incentives. Building strong global partnerships and fostering a culture of innovation can further boost the country’s position in the digital economy.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.
