According to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the government is considering the launch of a Pakistan Hockey League, designed on the model of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The proposal is part of the broader Prime Minister Youth Programme, which focuses on creating structured opportunities for young talent across multiple sectors.

The announcement reflects a growing effort to revive field hockey once Pakistan’s most successful sport—through a modern franchise-based format that could attract investment, visibility and international engagement.

Training 120,000 Youth in IT and Digital Skills

Alongside sports development, authorities have also decided to accelerate implementation of the Prime Minister Youth Skill Development Programme.

Under this initiative, 120,000 young people will be trained in information technology and digital skills, aiming to prepare them for employment in both domestic and global digital markets.

Officials say the programme is designed to strengthen Pakistan’s position in the rapidly expanding digital economy, where remote work, freelancing and tech-based services are becoming key sources of income.

Freelancers Driving Growth in Digital Economy

Prime Minister Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan highlighted strong growth in Pakistan’s freelancing sector, calling it a reflection of the country’s young talent entering global markets.

He said the annual income of Pakistani freelancers has increased from $642 million to $959 million, according to the 2025–26 Economic Survey, marking a significant rise in digital exports.

“This growth is a clear sign of the capabilities of our youth in the digital economy,” he said, adding that young Pakistanis are increasingly representing the country on global platforms through their technical and creative skills.

Expanding Access to Global Opportunities

Rana Mashhood said the government is working to equip youth with modern technological training and improved access to international markets. He noted that the expansion of freelancing and IT exports is contributing positively to foreign exchange earnings and broader economic stability.

He added that multiple training and capacity-building programmes are being implemented to ensure young people can compete in the global digital workforce.

Youth as the Backbone of Digital Future

Officials emphasised that Pakistan’s youth are central to the country’s long-term digital transformation strategy. With increasing investment in IT education and skill development, the government aims to create sustainable employment opportunities while strengthening its presence in the global digital economy.

Rana Mashhood said the government will continue to support young people, describing them as the “guarantee of Pakistan’s digital future” and a key driver of economic progress in the years ahead.