KARACHI, August 30, 2026: Pakistan has nearly 3 million full-time and part-time Freelancers working in the digital economy.
These Freelancers earned more than $1.76 billion through digital services during the last financial year. Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi shared these figures.
He was speaking at the first National Recognition Ceremony organised by the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA).
Governor Hashmi described Freelancers as an emerging digital workforce in Pakistan. He also called them an important source of foreign exchange for the country.
He said Pakistan’s young population could support long-term economic growth. However, young people need modern IT skills and relevant professional training.
Hashmi also stressed the importance of entrepreneurship and market-focused education. These skills can help young people access local and international employment opportunities.
The governor said the federal government was working with the Governor House on several initiatives. These programmes aim to improve skills among Sindh’s youth.
The initiatives are designed to strengthen employment prospects and encourage entrepreneurship. They also seek to prepare young people for opportunities in the digital economy.
Hashmi highlighted another major government target during his address. Pakistan aims to increase its IT exports to $25 billion by 2030.
He encouraged young people to develop skills linked to emerging technologies. He said these skills would help them compete in international markets.
The governor also urged youth to use the Digital Youth Hub. The platform was launched under the Prime Minister’s Youth Program.
The Digital Youth Hub provides access to opportunities in education, skills development and employment. It also supports entrepreneurship-related opportunities for young people.
Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Fahd Haroon also addressed the ceremony. He said the government was supporting efforts to expand freelancing.
He added that such initiatives could increase youth participation in Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
PAFLA President and CEO Dr Imran Batada also highlighted changing technology trends. He said artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity skills would become increasingly important.
According to him, technological developments are changing the nature of work. Workers will need new skills to remain competitive in the evolving digital market.
During the ceremony, Governor Hashmi recognised 45 Pakistani freelancers for their international contributions.
He presented shields to the award recipients in recognition of their work. Their achievements were highlighted as contributions to Pakistan’s digital economy.
In other news read more about Pakistani Freelancers Earn Record $1.76 Billion in FY26
The recognition ceremony reflected the growing role of digital professionals in Pakistan. It also highlighted the potential of freelancing to support exports and employment.
