'Govt preparing youth for tech-driven future'
The Sindh government, in collaboration with the Sukkur IBA University, has launched the People's Information Technology Programme (PITP) and the Centre of Excellence in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain (CRAIB) to promote technological innovation and economic empowerment.
These programs underscore the provincial government's commitment to uplifting communities, bridging the digital divide, and preparing the youth for a technology-driven future, said Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Science Lab and Creative Art Centre at the IBA Campus on Tuesday.
The PITP, launched as part of the Pro-Poor Capacity Building Program, represents an investment of Rs500 million aimed at enhancing IT-related skills across Sindh, he said, adding that the program has been implemented through NED University of Engineering & Technology in Karachi, Mehran University of Engineering & Technology in Jamshoro, and Sukkur IBA University. "This program is reshaping the province's educational and economic landscape," he added.
CM Shah said that with an ambitious goal of training 13,428 people by May 2025, PITP equips students and professionals with certifications in cutting-edge technologies, including Java development, data science, and digital marketing. The program's impact is evident from the fact that the first batch has graduated 1,714 students, who now serve as pioneers in Sindh's IT landscape. The second batch is currently underway, with an additional 4,000 trainees on track to complete their training.
Besides PITP, CM Shah said Sukkur IBA University has established the Centre of Excellence in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain (CRAIB), an initiative funded by the Sindh government under the Annual Development Program (ADP) 2020-21 for Rs149.627 million.
CRAIB aims to transform Sindh's technological landscape by advancing research, education, and entrepreneurship in emerging fields such as robotics, AI, and blockchain.