Caretaker Information Technology Minister revealed plans to establish 10,000 co-working spaces for freelancers across the country.
In a significant move to bolster Pakistan’s burgeoning freelance industry, Caretaker Information Technology Minister revealed plans to establish 10,000 co-working spaces for freelancers across the country. The initiative aims to address the challenges faced by the estimated 1.5 million online freelancers in Pakistan, positioning the nation as the world’s second-largest workforce in this domain.
The minister, in a video message, emphasized the hurdles encountered by Pakistani freelancers, citing frequent power outages and a scarcity of dedicated workspaces. To mitigate these issues, the government plans to set up 10,000 E-Rozgaar centers, providing freelancers with conducive environments to enhance productivity.
To facilitate the establishment of these co-working spaces, the government is extending interest-free loans to the private sector. This financial support is intended to encourage businesses to convert their real estate into modern, collaborative workspaces equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
The minister explained that each co-working space, accommodating approximately 100 freelancers, could collectively empower one million freelancers across the nation. He projected that this initiative has the potential to generate an impressive $10 billion annually for Pakistan’s economy.
The announcement follows the minister’s recent launch of the Pakistan Startup Fund (PSF), a groundbreaking initiative designed to inject Rs2 billion per year into the local startup ecosystem. The PSF operates as equity-free capital, providing crucial support to startups seeking to close venture capitalist rounds and secure initial external investments.
Industry experts and freelancers alike have welcomed these initiatives, viewing them as crucial steps toward fostering a more conducive environment for entrepreneurship and online freelancing in Pakistan. The ambitious plans not only address existing challenges but also position the country as a hub for innovation and economic growth in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
As Pakistan continues to navigate the complexities of a dynamic global economy, these proactive measures by the government signal a commitment to empowering its citizens and leveraging the potential of the digital economy for sustainable development. The impact of these initiatives is eagerly anticipated, as they hold the promise of transforming Pakistan into a thriving hub for freelancers and startups on the world stage.