PSEB Invites Bids to Establish e-Rozgar Centers Nationwide

Introduction to e-Rozgar Centers Initiative

The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has officially invited bids to establish e-Rozgar centers across the country. This significant initiative aims to support IT startups and provide specialized digital training, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for IT advancement and virtual capital development.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) and Financial Support

PSEB’s call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) is open to both public and private entities. Under this initiative, e-Rozgar centers will receive substantial financial support, including interest-free loans up to Rs. 10 million. These loans, facilitated through various banks, are designed to ease the financial burden of establishing these centers, allowing selected applicants to generate revenue before starting loan repayments.

Key Incentives for Applicants

Approved building owners and developers can benefit from several attractive incentives:

• Interest-Free Loans: Up to Rs. 10 million to support setup costs.
• Interest Coverage: PSEB will cover interest costs for the first two years.
• Free Training: Provided through DigiSkills and Ignite’s Learning Management System (LMS) to equip developers with necessary skills.
• Marketing Support: Free marketing assistance to enhance visibility and engagement.

Geographic Distribution of e-Rozgar Centers

The initiative plans to establish 250 e-Rozgar centers in the first phase, targeting all provinces and regions in Pakistan:

• Punjab: 149 centers
• Sindh: 51 centers
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 28 centers
• Islamabad: 11 centers
• Balochistan: 6 centers
• Azad Kashmir: 3 centers
• Gilgit-Baltistan: 2 centers

Purpose and Benefits

The primary goal is to democratize access to digital opportunities, especially for freelancers and small businesses. Each center will provide state-of-the-art infrastructure and comprehensive training, fostering job creation, digital literacy, and local economic development.

Trainers and Training Quality

To ensure high-quality training, PSEB will subsidize trainers’ costs, allocating Rs. 20,000 monthly per center. This support guarantees the highest quality of instruction, focusing on technology and entrepreneurship.

Impact on Digital Economy and Employment

This initiative by PSEB and the Ministry of IT aims to establish 10,000 e-Rozgar centers across Pakistan over time. Starting with the first phase of 250 centers, the program focuses on:

• Expanding the digital economy.
• Enabling Pakistan’s youth to participate more actively in the global digital marketplace.
• Enhancing job creation, digital literacy, and economic growth.

Long-Term Vision

The long-term vision is to significantly boost the digital economy by providing essential infrastructure and skill development. The government seeks to create an inclusive digital environment where Pakistan’s youth can thrive and contribute to the global digital landscape.

How to Apply for e-Rozgar Centers

Key details of the EOI are accessible on the PSEB and PPRA websites. Interested entities must submit their applications electronically by the deadline of November 20, 2024.

Required Documentation

Applicants must provide:

• Detailed project proposals.
• Financial plans.
• Proof of capability to manage and sustain the centers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary objective of the e-Rozgar centers initiative?

The primary objective is to support IT startups and provide specialized digital training, thereby expanding the digital economy and enhancing job creation and digital literacy in Pakistan.

Who can apply to establish an e-Rozgar center?

Both public and private entities are eligible to apply for establishing e-Rozgar centers.

What financial support is available for setting up an e-Rozgar center?

Selected applicants can receive interest-free loans up to Rs. 10 million, with PSEB covering interest costs for the initial two years.

How will the training quality be ensured at e-Rozgar centers?

PSEB will subsidize trainers’ costs, allocating Rs. 20,000 monthly per center, ensuring high-quality instruction through DigiSkills and Ignite’s LMS.

What is the deadline for submitting applications?

The deadline for electronic submissions is November 20, 2024.

Conclusion

The PSEB’s initiative to establish e-Rozgar centers is a groundbreaking step towards fostering a robust digital economy in Pakistan. By providing financial support, comprehensive training, and essential infrastructure, this program aims to create numerous opportunities for freelancers, small businesses, and the youth. As the program expands, it is poised to significantly enhance digital literacy, job creation, and economic development across the country.