The Government of Pakistan is stepping up efforts to empower the digital workforce by extending the Prime Minister’s Digital Youth Hub initiative to include support for the country’s thriving freelance community. This move is part of a broader national objective to drive economic growth through digital transformation and youth empowerment.
Strengthening Freelance Ecosystem
In a recent high-level meeting held in Islamabad, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Digital Hub, met with Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA). The meeting focused on how government initiatives could integrate with the freelance economy to uplift digital professionals and bolster Pakistan’s economic resilience.
Chairman Mashhood highlighted ongoing efforts to launch various skill development and capacity-building programs tailored to Pakistan’s youth. These initiatives are designed to produce a robust digital workforce capable of contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
One of the key programs under this vision is the establishment of 250 e-Rozgar Centers across Pakistan. These centers will serve as physical platforms to train, support, and connect blue-collar, white-collar, and skilled professionals to digital opportunities at both national and international levels.
Connecting Youth to the Future
The Prime Minister’s Digital Youth Hub, developed through a strategic partnership between the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) and UNICEF, aims to provide a one-stop platform for young Pakistanis. The hub connects them to job opportunities, educational resources, entrepreneurship support, and mentorship, enabling them to take charge of their future.
As part of the expansion, the freelance community will now benefit from the same tools and facilities, bridging the gap between training and income generation. This move is expected to accelerate Pakistan’s transition to a digitally-driven economy.
Freelancers Driving Foreign Exchange
PAFLA Chairman Ibrahim Amin emphasized the significant role freelancers play in Pakistan’s economy. He revealed that over 2.3 million freelancers are currently active in the country, collectively generating more than $500 million in foreign exchange annually.
However, Amin believes this figure can be doubled with the right policy support and public-private collaboration. “With the government’s backing and better infrastructure, we can turn Pakistan into one of the top global freelance economies,” he asserted.
Calls for Payment Gateways and Banking Support
A major point raised during the meeting was the need to introduce international payment gateways in Pakistan. Freelancers often face challenges in receiving payments due to the limited options available in the country.
Ibrahim Amin urged policymakers to prioritize the integration of platforms like PayPal and Stripe, which are widely used by freelancers across the globe. He also called on commercial banks to offer tailored incentives and digital banking solutions to support remote workers and promote a cashless economy.
By improving financial infrastructure and creating smoother channels for cross-border transactions, Pakistan can not only support its freelance community but also boost its global reputation as a reliable destination for outsourcing and remote talent.
Institutional Support and Collaboration
The meeting was also attended by senior representatives from key government institutions, including the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Ignite, the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, and the Universal Service Fund (USF). The presence of these stakeholders underscored the government’s commitment to an all-inclusive digital policy framework.
Officials expressed optimism about integrating PAFLA’s freelance insights into national digital strategies. Collaborative projects between the public sector and freelance organizations are expected to be rolled out soon, aiming to scale up digital literacy and income opportunities for millions of young Pakistanis.
Pakistan’s freelance economy is already a global force, and with strategic government support, it has the potential to generate over $1 billion in annual forex in the coming years. The expansion of the Digital Youth Hub to include freelancers signals a visionary shift in national priorities — one that recognizes digital work as a central pillar of the country’s future economic stability.
By addressing infrastructure gaps, simplifying international payments, and nurturing digital skills, Pakistan is laying the foundation for a self-sustained, tech-powered economy that puts youth at the forefront of progress.
