Pakistan’s freelance workforce has grown to nearly 3 million people, generating more than $1.76 billion in digital service earnings during the last financial year, Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi said.

Speaking at the first National Recognition Ceremony of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), Hashmi said freelancers were becoming an important part of Pakistan’s digital economy and contributing to foreign exchange earnings.

He said the country’s young population could become a major driver of economic growth if provided with quality education, technology skills, entrepreneurship training and knowledge aligned with international market demand.

According to Hashmi, the federal government and Governor House have introduced various programmes aimed at giving young people in Sindh access to modern skills and better employment and business opportunities.

He also highlighted the government’s goal of taking Pakistan’s IT exports to $25 billion by 2030. He urged young people to upgrade their skills and compete for opportunities in the global digital market.

The governor also encouraged youth to use the Digital Youth Hub under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, which provides access to education, skills development, employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Fahd Haroon, Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, said the government was working to create a supportive environment for freelancing and greater youth participation in the digital economy.

PAFLA Chairman Ibrahim Amin described Pakistani freelancers as “silent heroes” who continue to contribute to exports and foreign exchange earnings.

PAFLA President and CEO Dr. Imran Batada said young people would need to develop expertise in emerging fields, particularly artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity, as technology rapidly changes the global job market.

During the event, Governor Hashmi honoured 45 freelancers with shields for their achievements and contribution to Pakistan’s digital economy.