Pakistan has warmly welcomed Google’s latest endeavor—the Career Certificates 2.0 Program, aimed at equipping individuals with essential digital skills.
Syed Amin Ul Haque, the Federal Minister for Information Technology & Telecommunication, expressed his admiration for Google’s skill development programs, stating that they align perfectly with the ministry’s vision. The launch ceremony, organized by Google Asia Pacific, witnessed the minister addressing the audience as the chief guest.
Minister Amin Ul Haque extended a warm welcome to the Google Asia Pakistan Team, commending their efforts in introducing the new version of the Career Certificates Program tailored specifically for Pakistan. Mr. Kyle Gardner, Google’s Government Affairs & Public Policy Manager for South Asia, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication for their unwavering support and collaboration in implementing the program.
Recognizing the importance of staying abreast of the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Minister Ul Haque emphasized the necessity for individuals, especially the youth, to continually update their skills. He acknowledged the immense potential for growth and development in Pakistan’s demographic dividend, urging the harnessing of talents in the right direction.
The Minister highlighted the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication’s collaborative efforts with both public and private sector stakeholders to achieve a staggering 100% export growth in the IT sector. Fulfilling this ambitious goal requires a skilled workforce adept in the latest technologies to meet market demands.
Notably, the Google Career Certificates Program offers a unique opportunity for individuals with diverse backgrounds to acquire in-demand digital skills. Whether newcomers to a field or lacking a relevant academic background, participants can enroll in skill development courses.
The program focuses on six key areas: IT support, project management, data analysis, UX design, IT automation, and digital marketing and e-commerce. Google has now announced three highly sought-after courses: business intelligence, advanced data analytics, and cybersecurity. These programs aim to ensure that Pakistanis are well-prepared for the future job market.
Minister Ul Haque revealed that in 2022, Google, in collaboration with partners IRM and Ignite, awarded 15,000 scholarships to Pakistanis. Continuing their commitment, Google, in collaboration with partners IRM and Tech Valley, plans to grant a total of 44,500 scholarships this year—a testament to their dedication to empowering Pakistani youth.
Notably, the focus of these scholarships is on underrepresented groups, particularly women and urban youth, who stand to benefit greatly from acquiring these valuable skills and certifications.
Minister Amin Ul Haque expressed his wholehearted appreciation and unwavering support for Google’s initiative, acknowledging the company’s efforts in leveraging the latest technologies to empower the nation’s youth.
READ MORE: Google announces 44,500 new scholarships to Pakistanis
