KARACHI: IT Minister Dr Umar Saif on Friday said that the caretaker government was taking multifaceted measures to accelerate the growth of information and communication technology (ICT).

He said that the interim government was striving to lay the foundation of sustainable measures under the right line of action which would provide the required benefits of ICT sector to the upcoming government.

He said the IT sector can play a significant role in the stability of the country’s economy. The government is doing its part to provide facilities and the industry should play its part by increasing its capabilities. IT companies, which were compelled to keep their reserves outside, should bring their liquidity into Pakistan, he added.

Addressing as the chief guest at the annual ICT Awards, organised by Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) in collaboration with Habib Bank Ltd (HBL), the minister said the work was going on rapidly for the required initiatives including spectrum auction, co-working station for freelancers, startups funds, digital payments, global payment gateway etc.

He assured the IT industry of working closely with P@SHA and all other stakeholders for the promotion and development of this sector aimed at achieving the country’s desired position and share in the digital world. It would not only help people to earn a decent amount but also strengthen Pakistan’s economy.

The awards featured 34 remarkable gold awards, 40 merit awards and a total of 727 nominees, showcasing the remarkable growth and advancements within the Pakistani tech industry. There were 82 panels of judges from all over Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, October 28th, 2023