Pakistan starts a program to train semiconductors

As part of a larger government strategy to improve Pakistan’s standing in the international technology market, the Ministry of IT and Telecom of Pakistan has introduced a new training program called the Upskilling Training Program (USTP), which aims to enhance capabilities in the semiconductor industry.

A flagship project of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the USTP program was launched under the National Semiconductor HR Development Program-NSHRDP (INSPIRE) and has a budget of Rs. 4.844 billion.

The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), which is leading initiatives to create a strong talent pipeline in line with global industry demands, is carrying out the program.

Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology and NED University of Engineering and Technology have inked a training contract as part of the USTP program.

The agreement develops strategies to provide participants with specialised knowledge of semiconductor technology, namely in the areas of digital design and verification.

GIKI will train during the four-month upskilling program, and NED University will contribute to the larger goal of creating a workforce that is competent and prepared for the workforce.

Following program starting activities in April 2026, the training is set to start in May 2026.

Senior leadership, including the Chairman of the INSPIRE Project Steering Committee (PSC), Vice-Chancellor of NED University, Rector of GIKI University, and other academic and business players, attended the award event.

Speaking at the event, Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja stressed that the government’s strong commitment to developing Pakistan’s youth and facilitating their involvement in high-tech global businesses is reflected in this effort.

The program might assist Pakistan in joining the global semiconductor value chain, she continued, adding that semiconductor technology is essential to contemporary innovation and economic expansion.

Additionally, the Minister expressed optimism that this government-academia partnership will have a significant impact on the nation’s digital future.

The Ministry keeps reiterating its dedication to carrying out the Prime Minister’s vision of Digital Nation Pakistan and the Government of Pakistan’s digital economy agenda.