Pakistan has launched a new Pakistan semiconductor training program through the Upskilling Training Program (USTP), a government-backed initiative designed to build technical talent for the global semiconductor industry.
The Ministry of IT and Telecom introduced the programme under the National Semiconductor HR Development Program (NSHRDP), also referred to as INSPIRE. The initiative carries a budget of Rs. 4.844 billion and forms part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s broader digital economy vision.
The government aims to strengthen Pakistan’s place in the international technology market by developing a skilled workforce in semiconductor technologies.
Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) is executing the programme and leading efforts to create a talent pipeline that matches global industry demand. The initiative focuses especially on high-value technical areas that can support future export growth and innovation.
GIKI and NED University Join Hands for USTP
As part of the programme, authorities signed a training contract between Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology and NED University of Engineering and Technology.
Under this arrangement, the institutions will equip participants with specialised skills in semiconductor technologies, with a particular focus on Digital Design and Verification. During the four-month training period, GIKI will conduct the training while NED University will contribute to the wider goal of preparing an industry-ready workforce.
The semiconductor upskilling training is scheduled to start in May 2026, following programme initiation activities planned for April 2026.
Senior officials from academia and government attended the award ceremony, including the Chairman of the INSPIRE Project Steering Committee, the Vice-Chancellor of NED University, the Rector of GIKI, and other industry and education stakeholders.
Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to empowering young people and helping them enter high-tech global industries.
She added that semiconductor technology plays a central role in innovation and economic growth. According to the minister, the programme could help Pakistan secure a place in the global semiconductor value chain while supporting the wider Digital Nation Pakistan agenda.
