In March 2025, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the Free IT and Digital Skills Training Initiative under the Skilled Punjab program. This scheme is designed to train thousands of youth and women across Punjab in modern IT and digital skills.
Two major training tracks have been introduced:
- Mein Digital Program – A 6-month online training program for 27,000 rural women, with scholarships, free computers, and internet access.
- Global IT Certifications Program – Up to 10,000 youth can apply for 40+ internationally recognized IT certifications from Google, Microsoft, AWS, Cisco, and other global companies.
The initiative is managed by the Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) and the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB).
Complete Benefits
Free Training and Equipment
- All courses are fully funded by the Punjab government.
- Rural women receive a stipend of Rs.4,000–5,000/month, a free desktop computer, and a 6-month internet package.
- Computers and Wi-Fi are provided after successful completion of the women’s course.
Internationally Recognized Certificates
- Participants can earn certifications from AWS, Google, Microsoft, Cisco, and IBM.
- The Punjab government reimburses the full exam fee once the candidate passes, making certification effectively free.
Career Support and Job Links
- Official completion certificates are issued by PSDF and PITB.
- Rural women also get job referral links and freelancing guidance.
- Youth in the IT certification program gain global remote work opportunities.
Freelancing and Entrepreneurship Training
- Courses include modules on freelancing, e-commerce, and digital entrepreneurship.
- Women are trained in online selling (Shopify, Daraz), content creation, and freelancing platforms.
- This enables graduates to work from home or start small online businesses.
Course Categories and Platforms
The initiative covers a wide range of IT subjects:
- Web development and software programming
- Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)
- Data science, AI, and machine learning
- Cybersecurity and networking (Cisco)
- Database management and DevOps
- Software testing and quality assurance
- Digital marketing and e-commerce
- Multimedia and design
Delivery Platforms:
- Rural women: PSDF’s Mein Digital online platform
- Youth: PITB’s certification portal (certifications.pitb.gov.pk)
- Content is provided through global partners and official training vendors, ensuring quality learning with live instructor-led sessions.
How to Apply
Mein Digital Program (PSDF – for rural women)
- Visit psdf.org.pk and go to the Mein Digital page.
- Register with CNIC and mobile number.
- Complete an online skill/aptitude test.
- Upload documents: CNIC copy, passport-size photo, academic certificate (if asked).
- Shortlisted candidates are notified to start training.
- Selected participants receive a desktop computer and internet connection.
Global IT Certifications (PITB – for youth)
- Go to certifications.pitb.gov.pk.
- Click Register Now and sign up with CNIC and email.
- Fill in personal and educational details, and upload a clear ID photo.
- Select your preferred certification course (e.g., AWS, Microsoft, Cisco).
- Pay exam fee (if required) and upload proof.
- The government reimburses the fee after you pass.
Where to Apply
- Mein Digital (Women’s Training): psdf.org.pk/empowering-rural-women
- Global IT Certifications (Youth): certifications.pitb.gov.pk
- Help Desks:
- PSDF: +92-42-35752190 | info@psdf.org.pk
- PITB: +92-42-99000000 (ext 1902/1903) | info.certifications@pitb.gov.pk
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Rural Women’s Program | Global IT Certifications |
|---|---|---|
| Residency | Punjab residents | Punjab residents |
| Age | 18–35 years | No strict limit |
| Education | Minimum bachelor’s degree (16 years) | No strict requirement (basic IT knowledge preferred) |
| CNIC & Mobile | Valid CNIC and registered phone | Valid CNIC and registered phone |
| Gender | Female only | Open to all |
Note: Please note that the listings provided on this website are sourced from various newspapers and online platforms. We do not guarantee the accuracy, authenticity, or validity of the information provided in these listings. Users are advised to verify the details of the job postings independently before applying. Our organization is not responsible for any discrepancies or inaccuracies in the job listings.
Certification Process
- Mein Digital Program: After 6 months (480 hours) of online training, women receive a Punjab Government/PSDF certificate plus job/freelance referrals.
- Global IT Certifications: Candidates sit for vendor exams (e.g., AWS, Microsoft). Upon passing, they get an internationally recognized certificate and the exam fee is reimbursed.
Certificates are issued within weeks of course completion or exam success.
Key Dates and Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Announcement | 23 March 2025 |
| Registration Start | March 2025 |
| Rural Women’s Program Intake | Early 2025 (next intake to be announced) |
| Global IT Certifications | Ongoing until all 10,000 slots are filled |
| Training Duration | 3–6 months depending on course |
| Certificate Issuance | Within weeks of completion/exam |
Applicants should monitor the official portals for new intake announcements.
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