Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to take practical steps to boost the country’s IT (information technology) exports from the current $2.6 billion to $15 billion within the next three years. The prime minister stated this while chairing a meeting to discuss the promotion of the IT sector in Islamabad.

The prime minister also vowed to enhance the number of IT professionals from 0.6 million to 1.5 million within three years. He instructed the Higher Education Commission (HEC), universities and training institutes to work on the said target on a priority basis, besides improving the educational curriculum in accordance with the market needs.

Shehbaz also ordered the formation of a standing committee to deliberate over the linkages between the government and the IT industry, and for resolution of the industry’s issues. The committee would comprise the representatives of the IT industry, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Finance Ministry, IT Ministry and other relevant departments.

The prime minister assured to resolve the IT industry’s issues, and asked the relevant authorities to take effective measures for this purpose. He also urged the IT industry to bring its export revenue to Pakistan, and instructed the State Bank, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other relevant departments to take effective measures to help the industry achieve its targets. He said Pakistan has a huge potential in the IT sector which needs to be exploited.

The prime minister said IT entrepreneurs have played a key role in the promotion of the IT sector. However, the country’s IT exports are not in accordance with the existing talent. Shehbaz said the government would recognise the exporters who have played their role to enhance the IT exports.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk