Pakistan Software Export Board, Special Communications Organization, and the Gilgit-Baltistan School and Education Department signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to advance the region’s IT infrastructure and freelancing opportunities. These agreements aim to position Gilgit-Baltistan as a hub for IT freelancing, digital education, and innovation.

The first MoU outlines a partnership between PSEB and the IT Department of Gilgit-Baltistan to establish Software Technology Hubs in Diamer, Ghizer, and Nagar. These hubs will serve as key innovation centers, with PSEB providing the necessary technical expertise to drive development in the region.

The second MoU, involving SCO, the IT Department, and the Education Department of Gilgit-Baltistan, focuses on setting up 14 IT centers in schools across the region. These centers will play a crucial role in enhancing digital literacy among students and providing them with essential IT skills.

The signing ceremony was attended by key officials, including IT Advisor Suraiya Zaman, Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Abrar Ahmed Mirza, Sector Commander SCO Colonel Faheem, Secretary Education Akhtar Hussain Rizvi, and Secretary IT Riaz Ahmed. In her address, IT Advisor Suraiya Zaman highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming Gilgit-Baltistan into an IT hub and emphasized the importance of these partnerships in creating opportunities for local youth through training and professional development.

According to Gilgit-Baltistan government spokesperson Faiz Ullah Faraq, these initiatives mark a significant step in the region’s journey towards digital transformation and economic growth.

The freelancing centers will utilize the IT labs established in 14 schools across Gilgit-Baltistan during the second shift, creating additional opportunities for youth to engage in freelancing and further boosting the region’s IT capabilities.