Pakistan to Launch First Women’s Software Technology Park in Azad Kashmir by February 2024
In a significant step toward promoting gender inclusivity in technology, Pakistan has announced the establishment of its first women’s software technology park in Azad Kashmir. This landmark initiative, set to become operational by February 2024, aims to bridge the gender-based digital divide in the region and empower women in the growing tech sector.
The decision was finalized during a meeting of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), chaired by Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for women and ensuring their active participation in Pakistan’s digital economy.
The women’s software technology park in Azad Kashmir is part of a broader government initiative to establish 10 new software technology parks across the country by next year. These parks will feature incubation centers and facilities designed to support start-ups, foster innovation, and expand Pakistan’s IT exports.
Currently, Pakistan hosts 43 IT parks employing over 18,000 professionals, of whom 20 percent are women. The PSEB has been instrumental in driving growth within the IT sector, with initiatives since 2020 resulting in over 10,000 job placements through targeted training, certifications, and internship programs.
In addition, the PSEB aims to empower 25,000 freelancers by 2027 through the creation of 250 e-Employment Centers and expanding the reach of the IT sector globally.
This software technology park in Azad Kashmir represents a pivotal step toward gender inclusivity, providing women with access to cutting-edge technology, professional development, and entrepreneurial opportunities. It is also expected to contribute significantly to the economic development of the region.
