Lahore, Pakistan – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled the Digital Skills Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at equipping women in rural areas with in-demand digital skills. The program targets educated women aged 18 to 35, offering them the tools to secure remote employment, launch home-based businesses, and achieve financial independence while supporting their families.
Program Overview: Bridging the Digital Divide
The Digital Skills Program is designed to integrate women into the modern digital economy, fostering both personal and regional growth. By providing training in high-value skills, the initiative seeks to reduce unemployment, enhance household incomes, and promote gender-inclusive economic development across Punjab.
What Skills Will Participants Learn?
The program offers comprehensive training in key digital fields, enabling women to thrive in today’s tech-driven job market. Key areas of focus include:
- English Language Proficiency – Enhancing communication for global opportunities.
- Content Creation & Digital Marketing – Building brands and online presence.
- E-Commerce & Market Linking – Selling products on platforms like Daraz and Shopify.
- Freelancing Success Strategies – Navigating platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.
- Digital Financial Literacy – Managing online transactions securely.
- Soft Skills Development – Boosting professionalism and client relations.
Through these modules, participants will gain marketable expertise, allowing them to work remotely and contribute to their household economies.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Punjab resident with a valid CNIC registered in Punjab.
- Hold a minimum of 16 years of education (verified by the Punjab Board).
- Be between 18 to 35 years old.
- Have educational records registered with the Punjab Board and HEC.
Only eligible candidates will proceed to the next stages of registration.
How to Register: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process has been simplified for accessibility:
- Visit the official program website.
- Click “Apply Now” and fill out the form with accurate personal and educational details.
- Submit the application for verification.
- Take an online assessment test to determine eligibility.
Candidates are advised to provide complete and correct information to improve their chances of selection.
Selection & Training Process
After registration, applicants undergo a merit-based selection process:
- Online Aptitude Test – Assessing basic skills and eligibility.
- Merit List Publication – Transparent shortlisting of successful candidates.
- Free Equipment Provision – Selected participants receive a desktop computer and six months of free internet.
- 480 Hours of Online Training – Instructor-led sessions covering all modules.
- Final Assessment & Certification – Participants must maintain 80% attendance and pass evaluations to graduate.
Benefits & Incentives
The program offers significant support to ensure participants’ success:
- Free desktop computer (worth PKR 150,000) and 6 months of internet.
- Monthly stipend of PKR 5,000 during training.
- Mentorship from industry experts for career guidance.
- Freelancing and job placement assistance post-training.
A Step Toward Financial Independence
The Digital Skills Program is more than just training—it’s a pathway to economic empowerment. By equipping women with digital expertise, the Punjab government aims to unlock new opportunities, reduce poverty, and drive technological progress in rural communities.
Women who complete the program will be positioned to earn from home, support their families, and contribute to Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
How to Stay Updated
For further details on eligibility, registration, and program updates, applicants should refer to the official Punjab government portals.
This initiative marks a significant leap toward inclusive growth, ensuring that women across Punjab are not left behind in the digital revolution.
