EU and British Council Boost Women’s Digital Skills in Pakistan

The European Union in Pakistan and the British Council have launched an important report titled Skill Gap & Market Need Analysis as part of Component 4 of the EU-funded TVET Sector Support Programme (Phase IV). Developed by Ipsos Pakistan, the report sheds light on the urgent need for digital and high-tech skills in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan.

The findings are expected to guide the establishment of two internationally accredited Centres of Excellence that will focus on preparing women for future-ready careers. The report was launched with the support of Ms Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education & Professional Training, and offers a roadmap for inclusive, industry-relevant training in emerging technologies.

It highlights the potential of Pakistan’s ICT sector, which reached US $3.2 billion in exports in 2024, with projections of 7.3% growth by 2029. However, only 16% of ICT roles are currently filled by women. The study also identifies a gap in high-level, competency-based training, with fewer than 10% of TVET institutes offering such programs.

Stakeholders emphasized the role of women in driving economic progress and the importance of targeted skill development in unlocking their potential in the digital economy.