The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has officially called for applications to establish e-Rozgar centers across Pakistan as part of a major initiative to support IT startups and specialized digital training.
Expressions of interest (EOI) are open to both public and private entities, aligning with the Prime Minister’s broader vision for IT advancement and virtual capital development.
According to PSEB, under the initiative, e-Rozgar centers are set to receive critical financial support, including interest-free loans up to Rs. 10 million. These loans, provided through various banks, will ease the financial strain of setting up the centers, allowing selected applicants to generate revenue before loan repayments commence.
Key details of the EOI are accessible on the PSEB and PPRA websites, with the deadline for electronic submissions set for November 20, 2024.
The program offers several attractive incentives to approved building owners and developers. In addition to the interest-free loans, PSEB will cover interest costs during the initial two years, alleviating upfront financial pressure. The package also includes free training for developers through DigiSkills and Ignite’s Learning Management System (LMS), equipping them with the skills required to manage and grow the e-Rozgar centers effectively. PSEB will also provide free marketing support to boost the centers’ visibility and engagement.
This project is set to launch with the establishment of 250 e-Rozgar centers, targeting all provinces and regions in Pakistan. Punjab is projected to host 149 centers, followed by Sindh with 51, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 28, Islamabad with 11, and Balochistan with 6 centers. Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan will also see representation with 3 and 2 centers respectively. These centers aim to democratize access to digital opportunities, especially for freelancers and small businesses.
Each e-Rozgar center will provide state-of-the-art infrastructure and comprehensive training. Trainers’ costs will be subsidized by PSEB, with Rs. 20,000 allocated monthly per center to ensure the highest quality of instruction. Additionally, the initiative promises to enhance job creation, digital literacy, and local economic development through targeted skills training in technology and entrepreneurship.
This initiative by PSEB and the Ministry of IT aims to establish 10,000 e-Rozgar centers across Pakistan over time. Beginning with the first phase of 250 centers, the program focuses on expanding the digital economy and enabling Pakistan’s youth to participate more actively in the global digital marketplace. By providing essential infrastructure and skill development, the government seeks to enhance job creation, digital literacy, and economic growth across the country.
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