China to Train 300,000 Young Pakistanis Every Year in Digital Skills

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has announced that China will provide digital skills training to 300,000 Pakistani youths every year, a move aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s technology sector and digital economy.

Speaking at the 3rd LCCI IT Freelancing Awards 2026, organized by the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan has emerged as the world’s fourth largest freelancing country, with young professionals playing a key role in expanding digital exports and earning valuable foreign exchange.

He said success in today’s economy no longer depends on large offices or heavy investments, but on knowledge, skills and access to technology.

LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol urged freelancers and IT professionals to embrace artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to remain competitive in the global market. He said the government and private sector could work together to transform Pakistan into a regional digital economy hub under the Uraan Pakistan vision.

Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman said freelancing has become a major pillar of Pakistan’s digital economy, with freelancers contributing millions of dollars in foreign exchange each year.

He said the Punjab government is working with the federal government and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to address international payment challenges faced by freelancers and ensure they receive their earnings through secure and efficient payment channels.

The minister added that Punjab is investing in digital infrastructure, technology parks, IT zones and innovation hubs while expanding artificial intelligence initiatives. He said the province aims to become Pakistan’s leading center for AI, innovation and digital entrepreneurship, producing not only successful freelancers but also AI developers, startup founders and global technology leaders.