Students advised to hone digital skills

Former minister urges acquisition of new skills to reap benefits of tech innovation

RAWALPINDI:

Former Federal Minister for Planning, Development, Reforms and Special Initiatives Asad Umar said that digital technology has the potential to revolutionise the economy of the country if exploited rightly.

He spoke at an event titled "Taleem Aur Hunar Sath Sath" organised at Rawalpindi Women University (RWU) on Monday. The event was part of an initiative of the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) launched on the directions of the Punjab government.

The economist highlighted the need for learning new skills to truly reap the benefits of technological innovations.

Asad Umar and Punjab Information Technology Minister Dr Arslan Khalid attended the event as chief guests. PITB DG e-Governance Sajid Latif and Rawalpindi Women University Vice-Chancellor Dr Anila Kamal joined the event as guests of Honor.

Dr Arslan Khalid briefed that the purpose of 'Taleem Aur Hunar Sath Sath' drive was to empower the youth and build awareness about making efforts to foster both skills and education.

"Along with the degree, students will also be equipped in various digital skills. This program has given equal opportunity to female students as companies with female leaders are making huge profits," he added.

Dr Anila Kamal appreciated the efforts of PITB in training students.

Sajid Latif briefed that the orientation drive will take place in major cities of Punjab so that university students could be guided to focus both on skills and education.

Freelancing Guru Hisham Sarwar, Pakistan Software Houses Association Secretary General Hira Zainab, Impact Dynamics Founding Director Maryam Arshad also shared their views on the importance of digital skills and emphasized that university students focus on both education and digital skills.

They also shared their experiences about online earning through social media and e-commerce.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 18^th, 2022.