Caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications (MoITT) Dr. Umar Saif awarded Rs. 825 million as a cash prize to companies contributing significantly to IT and IT-enabled services exports.
Dr. Saif emphasized the vital role of the IT industry in the nation’s economy, underscoring the need for maximum incentives and rewards for its growth. He lauded these companies for bolstering the economy through substantial foreign exchange earnings from the digital talent of Pakistani professionals globally, expressing optimism that the $10 billion target for IT exports could soon be attained.
The prize distribution ceremony, organized by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) in Lahore, saw the presence of Additional Secretary IT & Chief Executive Officer PSEB Ayesha Humaira Moriani, Member IT Syed Junaid Imam, Chairman IT Association (P@SHA) Muhammad Zohaib Khan, along with officials from MoITT and notable figures from the IT industry.
Dr. Saif outlined the reasons behind the cash prize distribution, highlighting the government’s decision to incentivize companies with positive growth in IT exports. He mentioned that timely decisions by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) led to a record 32 percent increase in overall IT exports in the country over the last 60 days.
A total of Rs. 825 million was distributed among 550 companies with positive growth across six categories. The top 10 companies were also awarded cash prizes and trophies for outstanding performance.
Additionally, Rs. 175 million will be allocated to companies employing trained IT-skilled individuals. Through innovative initiatives like the Industry Co-Opt Program, developed in collaboration with HEC and P@SHA, internship opportunities will be provided to IT students, aiming to place approximately 3,500 interns in the IT & ITeS exporters.
Chairman P@SHA commended the decision to provide cash rewards and awards, stating that it boosts confidence among IT companies and freelancers, fostering an atmosphere of competition and driving growth in the country’s IT exports.
