Work is underway on Pakistan’s first Centre of Excellence in Gaming and Animation (CEGA), an initiative by Ignite National Technology Fund to strengthen the country’s position in the global gaming and animation sector. The Rs. 2.52 billion project, awarded to M/s. HUM Networks after a competitive bidding process, officially began on August 1, 2025, following a year-long cycle of evaluations and approvals. Designed to operate over a period of five years and three months, CEGA will serve as a comprehensive hub for training, innovation, and industry growth, targeting the development of specialized skills essential for the fast-expanding digital media market.
Ignite envisions CEGA as a strategic asset in positioning Pakistan as a prominent regional player in the billion-dollar gaming and animation industry. The facility will be equipped with advanced technology, co-working spaces, and specialized training programs to help young professionals build high-demand skills. With Pakistan’s gaming industry generating around $170 million in revenue last year and employing over 8,000 professionals, the initiative is expected to open up new opportunities for both career advancement and economic growth. The country’s robust ICT talent pool, producing more than 30,000 graduates annually, coupled with 195 million mobile subscribers and 119 million 3G/4G users, provides a strong base for industry expansion. The predominantly young, English-speaking population adds to the sector’s potential, making Pakistan an attractive market for gaming and animation ventures.
According to official documents, the process leading to CEGA’s launch began in May 2024 and involved multiple procurement stages, including technical and financial evaluations, grievance hearings, and reviews by the Finance and Procurement Committee. In May 2025, the Board of Directors approved HUM Networks as the project partner, after which the contract was signed on July 15, 2025. The project will be executed under Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules to ensure transparency and compliance. Ignite aims for the facility not only to deliver advanced technical and creative capabilities but also to promote a sustainable digital ecosystem, integrating technology, arts, and media for solutions that address both local and global market demands.
Officials believe CEGA will catalyze a new wave of creativity and innovation in Pakistan’s gaming and animation industry. By fostering collaboration between professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators, the center is expected to contribute to the country’s creative economy, stimulate entrepreneurship, and help capture a larger share of the global digital content market. The initiative reflects a long-term commitment to developing an industry-ready workforce and positioning Pakistan as a competitive destination for digital media production in the region.
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