The Upskilling Training Program (USTP) has been launched by the Ministry of IT and Telecom Pakistan to develop specialised skills in the semiconductor sector.
This program will strengthen the country’s position in the global market.
The USTP initiative is part of the National Semiconductor HR Development Program (NSHRDP-INSPIRE). It is a flagship program supported by the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and backed by the Government of Pakistan with a budget of Rs4.844 billion.
The program will be run by the Pakistan Software Export Board to build a skilled workforce. It will meet international semiconductor industry standards.
Students to be trained by universities in semiconductor technology
A training agreement has been signed under the program between Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering and Sciences and Technology and NED University of Engineering and Technology.
The training program will be for four months and will focus on Verification and Digital Design. It will equip participants with specialised semiconductor technology skills.
It is expected that training activities will begin in May 2026. Preparatory work will be done in April.
Govt aims to enter the global semiconductor value chain
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, speaking at the ceremony said that the government’s commitment to empowering youth is reflected in this initiative. It will prepare them for high-tech industries.
It was emphasised by her that semiconductor technology plays a critical role in economic growth and modern innovation. It is aimed that through the program Pakistan can become a part of the global semiconductor value chain.
It was stated by the officials that the collaborations between academia and government will support Pakistan’s broader digital economy agenda and the vision of Digital Nation Pakistan.
Also read: Pakistan Enters Semiconductor Market with INSPIRE Initiative
