Amir Saeed

Pakistan’s first women’s software technology park being developed in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is a pioneering initiative designed to boost women’s representation and leadership in the tech industry, narrowing the country’s digital gender gap.

Talking to WealthPK, Zill-e-Huma, Chairperson of North Elegance Hub, a pioneering women-led initiative, highlighted that Pakistan is set to make a ground-breaking leap in the tech sector with the launch of its first women’s software technology park in AJK. “This initiative aims to bridge the gender-based digital divide and empower women in the tech industry, marking a significant step toward gender inclusivity in the country’s digital economy.”

Spearheaded by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) under the leadership of Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, this project is part of a broader government plan to establish 10 new software technology parks nationwide. These parks will feature incubation centres and facilities to support startups, expand IT exports, and foster innovation.

“The establishment of this park highlights the government’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for women in technology. With women comprising a small portion of Pakistan’s IT workforce, initiatives like this are essential for addressing the gender gap in the sector,” Huma said.

Currently, women represent 20% of the workforce in PSEB-supported technology parks, which employ over 18,000 professionals across 43 locations in Pakistan. Since 2020, PSEB has facilitated over 10,000 job placements through specialised training, certification, and internship programmes.

She added that the park will empower women in tech and strengthen Pakistan’s digital sector. “By equipping women with resources and opportunities, it aims to enhance their meaningful participation in the tech industry and ensure their role in shaping the country’s digital future.”

“While this development is commendable, it underscores the need for similar initiatives across other parts of Pakistan. Establishing such technology parks nationwide would ensure that women in urban centres and remote areas alike have equal access to opportunities in the IT sector. Expanding this model to regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan could further enhance inclusivity and contribute to Pakistan’s overall economic growth,” Huma underscored.

Talking to WealthPK, Durr-e-Najaf, an IT professional, said that this initiative aligns with other efforts across Pakistan to empower women in technology. “Programmes like WomenInTechPK and CodeGirls have already made strides by offering mentorship, training, and funding opportunities for women-led startups.”

She noted that success stories such as Sehat Kahani and SheDev highlight the untapped potential of female entrepreneurs when given access to resources and support. “These efforts collectively aim to dismantle societal stereotypes and encourage more women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.”

She said that the women’s software technology park is expected to serve as a catalyst for change, fostering creativity and innovation while addressing systemic barriers that have historically excluded women from leadership roles in tech.

“By promoting gender diversity, the country benefits not just from a more equitable society but also from the economic advantages of a more inclusive workforce. This project represents a pivotal moment for the country’s tech industry, signalling a future where women play an integral role in driving technological progress and innovation.”

Credit: INP-WealthPk