Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has taken significant steps to strengthen the country’s IT and IT-enabled Services sector by certifying 40 companies under ISO27001 and ISO27701 standards. These certifications aim to ensure information security, data privacy, and operational compliance across the IT ecosystem. Of the certified companies, 18 are based in Islamabad, 16 in Punjab, and six in Sindh, reflecting the geographic spread and growing capacity of technology firms in Pakistan. Alongside company certifications, PSEB has delivered targeted training programs to over 8,600 candidates through its “Certification of IT Professionals” initiative, which has equipped participants from various provinces including ICT, Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan with internationally recognized IT skills.
In addition to professional certifications, PSEB has expanded capacity-building initiatives through the “ICT Internship Program,” placing 2,700 fresh graduates in internships to gain practical experience within the industry. Interns were distributed across the country, with 1,517 in Punjab and ICT, 197 in Sindh, 170 in Balochistan, 612 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and 204 in Gilgit-Baltistan. This effort aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements, supporting the development of a skilled workforce capable of meeting the growing demands of both domestic and international technology markets. By integrating hands-on training with exposure to professional workflows, PSEB is helping create a new generation of technology professionals equipped to compete at global standards.
PSEB has also focused on improving customer support services by providing financial and technical assistance to 31 call centers across Islamabad, Punjab, and Sindh to achieve ISO 18295 certification. These certifications are designed to enhance service quality, safeguard customer interests, and optimize operational efficiency for both local and international clients. The organization has further encouraged the integration of Pakistani IT companies into the financial market by facilitating listings on the GEM Board of Pakistan Stock Exchange, aiming to strengthen investor confidence and raise the international profile of Pakistan’s technology sector. This move is expected to support sustainable growth and promote transparency within the industry while creating opportunities for increased market participation.
To complement skill development and market integration, PSEB has expanded nationwide infrastructure by establishing 25 Software Technology Parks. Fourteen parks have been developed in Punjab and Islamabad, four in Sindh, one in Balochistan, four in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and two in Gilgit-Baltistan. These facilities provide tailored support for startups, small and medium enterprises, and established technology companies, offering dedicated workspaces, modern infrastructure, and access to business resources. The combination of certifications, professional training, market facilitation, and infrastructure development reflects PSEB’s ongoing efforts to enhance Pakistan’s IT ecosystem and ensure the country remains competitive in the global technology industry.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
