In a significant step toward building a future-ready digital workforce, the federal government plans to offer 500,000 Google and Microsoft certifications across Pakistan in 2025. The announcement was made during a Senate Standing Committee meeting by Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
Speaking to committee members, Shaza Fatima emphasized that the initiative is part of the government’s broader digital skills development strategy aimed at equipping Pakistani youth with globally recognized qualifications. “We are working closely with major tech giants like Google and Microsoft. Their certification programs are internationally valued and will help our young people become more competitive in the global job market,” she said.
In an ambitious addition to the plan, the minister revealed that the government is also working on introducing artificial intelligence (AI) education at the primary school level. She said a curriculum reform committee, chaired by the Prime Minister himself, is reviewing how best to incorporate AI and other digital technologies into early education.
“Teaching AI at a young age will give our children the foundation they need to meet the challenges of the future,” she said. “This isn’t just about coding — it’s about preparing a generation that can innovate and lead in a rapidly changing world.”
During the meeting, Shaza also took aim at universities producing IT graduates who remain unemployed, calling for accountability and urging the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to take a more data-driven approach. “Institutions whose graduates don’t get jobs should face funding cuts,” she said firmly, adding that public investment in higher education should be directly linked to real-world outcomes.
She urged the HEC to evaluate university programs based on job market relevance and to support only those that deliver measurable value in terms of employability and skill development.
Separately, the committee reviewed the hiring process for the post of Director General of International Coordination. Addressing concerns over transparency, Shaza clarified that although the current DG had been reappointed, the government decided to re-advertise the position to ensure a fair and open process.
“We received over 1,400 applications for the DG position,” she said. “The re-advertisement wasn’t about sidelining anyone — it was about giving everyone, including new candidates, a fair shot.”
In response to questions raised by Senator Manzoor Kakar, the minister clarified that the role of Director General is intended for seasoned professionals with international experience, not recent graduates, and is vital for managing Pakistan’s growing digital partnerships on the global stage.
The announcements underscore the government’s push to modernize education, align training with industry demands, and open new doors for Pakistan’s youth in the global tech ecosystem.
