RMC set to launch Punjab's first freelance IT hub

Initiative is designed to train and offer employment to 1,200 young men, women


Jamil Mirza August 14, 2024
The IT hub will operate in a newly-constructed two-storey building on four kanals of land in Chamanzar, adjacent to Murree Road. PHOTO: EXPRESS

print-news
RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has become the first municipal body in Punjab to complete preparations for the launch of a freelance IT hub. This initiative is designed to train and provide employment opportunities for 1,200 young men and women in the IT sector.

The IT hub will operate in a newly-constructed two-storey building on four kanals of land in Chamanzar, adjacent to Murree Road, under the supervision of the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB). The building, which cost Rs110 million to construct, has been handed over to the PITB for operational setup. Although 80% of the renovation, cable installation, furniture setup, and other necessary work have been completed, the remaining tasks are slightly delayed.

To ensure timely completion, Rawalpindi Commissioner Engineer Aamir Khattak has formed a monitoring committee led by Additional Commissioner Nazarat Ali Shah, along with Chief Officer Municipal Corporation Imran Ali and Municipal Officer Infrastructure Raffaat Gondal. The committee has been tasked with overseeing the remaining work to ensure the freelance IT hub becomes fully functional by the last week of this month.

The registration process for the IT Hub will start soon, managed by the Punjab Information Technology Board under the supervision of the Municipal Corporation. The IT classes will be available in both morning and evening sessions, accommodating 600 students per shift.

Chief Officer Imran Ali told The Express Tribune that the freelance IT hub aims to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the IT sector, enabling them to export software globally from within Pakistan. The hub not only offers training but also opens up significant employment opportunities. The IT workshops will be led by expert instructors from PITB, and regular registration will be required for participation.

The monitoring committee, led by the Additional Commissioner, is actively ensuring the project's completion within the next ten days. Rawalpindi Commissioner is eager to see the freelance IT hub fully operational by the end of the month.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ