The Ignite Board, operating under Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), has approved several large-scale technology and innovation programs designed to accelerate the country’s digital transformation, strengthen its human capital, and boost growth in emerging technology sectors. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to positioning Pakistan as a regional hub for digital skills, cloud innovation, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship.
One of the flagship initiatives is the Prime Minister’s Cloud Program for Startups, which aims to help emerging companies access global cloud infrastructure through a structured credit support system. This program will lower technology costs, enhance scalability, and allow startups to build competitive digital products that can perform effectively in global markets. By providing cloud computing access and resources, the program seeks to reduce entry barriers for entrepreneurs and promote sustainable digital innovation.
Another key project, the Code4AI Program, will train 7,500 participants in advanced programming and AI application development. The curriculum includes hands-on learning in Python, jаvascript, and Java, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence frameworks. The program also covers essential areas such as blockchain technologies—Ethereum, Solidity, and Hyperledger—along with an introduction to quantum computing and prompt engineering. This initiative aims to create a skilled workforce capable of driving Pakistan’s participation in the global AI economy.
The Digital Pakistan Cyber Security Hackathon 2025 is another major component, offering a total of Rs. 6.5 million in cash prizes to the best-performing teams in the Capture the Flag (CTF) competition. Alongside the competition, training workshops and awareness sessions will be held across 16 cities, engaging over 3,000 participants. A three-day specialized training course will also be conducted for government officials. In addition to cash prizes, international training vouchers worth Rs. 12 million will be distributed among top participants, and Rs. 27 million will be allocated for sponsorships to support Pakistani talent in global cybersecurity competitions.
In Balochistan, the National Incubation Center (NIC) Quetta 2.0 will be launched to expand entrepreneurial and innovation opportunities in the province. The upgraded center will support more than 70 entrepreneurs annually through mentorship programs, startup incubation, business training, and connections with investors. This will help new startups transform innovative ideas into viable, growth-oriented businesses and contribute to regional economic development.
The Ignite Board has also approved the SAP Training Program, which will train and certify 2,500 young Pakistanis in globally recognized enterprise technology systems. These certifications will improve job readiness and international employability, helping bridge Pakistan’s digital skills gap and opening pathways to global technology careers.
Collectively, these new programs are a strategic investment in Pakistan’s digital economy, designed to foster innovation, boost youth employability, and promote sustainable technological growth across key regions and industries.