NED University of Engineering and Technology, in collaboration with the Pakistan Software Export Board, has conducted entrance tests for the fully funded Digital Integrated Circuit Design and Verification training programme under the Prime Minister’s National Semiconductor Human Resource Development Program, known as NSHRDP INSPIRE, across seven cities simultaneously on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The tests mark a critical step in the selection process for what is being described as Pakistan’s flagship initiative to build a global semiconductor talent pipeline, with shortlisted candidates from across the country sitting examinations on the same day to determine their eligibility for the fully funded, stipend-supported programme.
Test venues were established in Karachi, Jamshoro, Sukkur, Nawabshah, Quetta, Lahore, and Islamabad, ensuring that candidates from a broad geographic spread of provinces and cities could participate without being required to travel to a single centralised location. The examination covered five core technical domains: Digital Logic Design, Programming, Data Structures, Computer Architecture, and Analytical Skills, reflecting the foundational knowledge requirements for candidates who will go on to receive specialised training in integrated circuit design and verification at industry-standard laboratory facilities. The multi-city simultaneous test format underscores the programme’s intent to draw talent from across Pakistan rather than concentrating its benefits in a single urban centre.
The initiative is being delivered in academic partnership with Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology, UIT University, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Sukkur IBA University, Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering Sciences and Technology Nawabshah, Balochistan University of Information Technology Engineering and Management Sciences Quetta, the University of Engineering and Technology Lahore, and Sir Syed CASE Institute of Technology, forming one of the broadest multi-institutional academic consortia assembled for a technology training programme in Pakistan’s recent history. Candidates who sat the April 25 test in Karachi and other primary venues were informed through their shortlisting communications, while a separate test date of May 2 has been confirmed for candidates at additional venues including COMSATS University Islamabad’s Abbottabad Campus, extending the reach of the selection process further. Successful candidates will receive four months of hands-on integrated circuit design training, a monthly stipend of PKR 50,000, access to fully equipped design laboratories, experienced faculty, dedicated mentorship, and direct industry employment support upon completion.
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