In a major push towards fostering technological innovation and economic empowerment, the Sindh Government, in collaboration with Sukkur IBA University, celebrated two transformative initiatives: the People’s Information Technology Programme (PITP) and the establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain (CRAIB).
According to a statement issued from CM House today, speaking at the inauguration of the Science Lab and Creative Art Centre at Sukkur IBA, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah outlined the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and preparing youth for a technology-driven future.
‘These initiatives are a testament to our efforts to uplift communities and empower our youth with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world,’ he said.
The ceremony was attended by key figures, including Speaker of the Sindh Assembly Awais Qadir Shah, Minister for Planning and Development Syed Nasir Shah, Minister for Excise and Taxation Mukesh Chawla, MPA Syed Farukh Shah, PPP President Javed Shaikh, and Sukkur IBA Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Asif Shaikh, among others.
CM Shah highlighted that the PITP, launched under the Pro-Poor Capacity Building Program, represents an investment of Rs 500 million aimed at enhancing IT-related skills across Sindh. The program, rolled out in partnership with NED University, Mehran University, and Sukkur IBA University, is already making significant strides in reshaping the province’s educational and economic landscape.
The ambitious goal of PITP is to train 13,428 individuals by May 2025, equipping them with certifications in Java development, data science, and digital marketing. The first batch of 1,714 students has already graduated, marking a crucial milestone in the program’s success. A second batch of 4,000 trainees is currently underway.
The CM emphasized that the PITP’s inclusive approach ensures access to quality education across Sindh, including rural areas such as Mithi and Umerkot. ‘We are also promoting a culture of excellence by awarding 300 laptops to top-performing students,’ he said, noting that the initiative is more than just a training program-it is a movement to empower youth and position Sindh as a leading hub for IT talent.
Alongside PITP, the Sindh government has funded the establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain (CRAIB) at Sukkur IBA University. With a grant of Rs 149.627 million under the Annual Development Program (ADP) Scheme 2020-21, CRAIB aims to advance Sindh’s technological capabilities by focusing on cutting-edge fields such as robotics, AI, and blockchain.
The centre’s objectives include producing highly skilled graduates, conducting patentable research, developing real-world commercial solutions, and fostering collaborations with international centres of excellence. In alignment with Pakistan’s Vision 2025, CRAIB will play a crucial role in human capital development, entrepreneurship, and the establishment of a knowledge-based economy.
CM Shah described the combined efforts of PITP and CRAIB as part of a visionary approach to education and technology. ‘While PITP equips individuals with the skills to succeed in the global market, CRAIB lays the foundation for groundbreaking technological advancements,’ he said. Together, these initiatives aim to create new opportunities, uplift communities, and set the stage for Sindh’s socio-economic progress.
As both programs gain momentum, they are set to position Sindh at the forefront of digital transformation, talent development, and innovation, promising a brighter, more inclusive future for the province.
During the event, VC Dr Asif Shaikh briefed the Chief Minister on the CRAIB program and the newly constructed building. The CM also awarded medals and certificates to the successful graduates of the PITP.