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Pakistan Promotes Mineral Sector as a New Growth Engine in Pak–China Cooperation

Pakistan Promotes Mineral Sector as a New Growth Engine in Pak–China Cooperation
Pakistan Promotes Mineral Sector as a New Growth Engine in Pak–China Cooperation 2560 1280 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan has positioned its mineral sector as a key driver of future economic growth. At the same time, it aims to deepen long-term cooperation with China. This vision was highlighted at the Pak–China Mineral Cooperation Forum held in Islamabad. The event brought together policymakers, diplomats, and industry leaders from both countries.

Notably, the forum coincided with 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. As a result, both sides agreed to expand cooperation beyond infrastructure and energy. In particular, mining and mineral processing were identified as priority areas for the next phase of engagement.

Mineral Development Declared a Strategic Priority

Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Minister Ahsan Iqbal stated that mineral development is now a strategic priority for Pakistan. Previously, CPEC projects had focused on power and infrastructure. However, the government now sees minerals as a long-term growth engine.

Moreover, he emphasized that responsible mining could support industrial expansion and job creation. At the same time, it could unlock economic potential in underdeveloped regions across the country.

China Reaffirms Support for Sustainable Mining

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed China’s strong interest in Pakistan’s mineral sector. In addition, he stressed the importance of capacity building and technology transfer. Importantly, he noted that environmental protection must remain central to all mining activities.

For example, he referred to the Saindak Copper-Gold Project, where over 5,200 local workers have been trained. Consequently, the project has strengthened local skills and community engagement. Furthermore, he said China would continue supporting people-focused initiatives.

Critical Minerals Gain Global Importance

Energy Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted the rising global demand for critical minerals. This trend is largely driven by the global energy transition. Therefore, Pakistan is moving toward a value-added and well-regulated mining framework.

Additionally, the government is strengthening regulatory oversight and approval mechanisms. Meanwhile, Malik highlighted China’s expertise in rare earths, copper smelting, and mineral refining, calling it highly relevant to Pakistan’s needs.

Currently, several joint ventures are already operational. These include the Saindak Project, the Duddar Lead-Zinc Project, and the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company. Going forward, cooperation is expected to expand into new copper-gold prospects.

Launch of Pak–China E-Mining Platform

One of the forum’s most important outcomes was the launch of the Pak–China E-Mining Platform. Specifically, the platform aims to improve transparency and coordination. In turn, it will connect Pakistani authorities with Chinese enterprises more efficiently.

As a result, investors are expected to benefit from better access to data and streamlined approvals. Additionally, several MoUs were signed to strengthen technical and investment cooperation.

Geological Surveys and Investment Momentum

The forum also highlighted cooperation between the Geological Survey of Pakistan and the China Geological Survey. Since 2010, this collaboration has completed nationwide geochemical sampling. Now, Pakistan is moving toward higher-resolution geological surveys.

Meanwhile, Board of Investment Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh noted growing private-sector engagement. In fact, hundreds of Pakistani companies have engaged with Chinese firms. Consequently, the government is focused on converting MoUs into real investments.

CPEC Vision Extends Beyond Infrastructure

Separately, Minister Ahsan Iqbal visited the Pak–China Friendship Hospital in Gwadar. During the visit, he inaugurated a new diagnostic block. Currently, the hospital provides free treatment to over 1,100 patients daily.

According to the minister, CPEC’s vision goes beyond roads and power plants. Instead, it also prioritizes healthcare, education, and social welfare. Therefore, the hospital stands as a symbol of people-centered cooperation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pak–China Mineral Cooperation Forum marks a new chapter in bilateral relations. Overall, mining and mineral processing are emerging as strategic growth sectors. With digital platforms, policy stability, and sustainable practices, Pakistan aims to unlock its mineral potential. Ultimately, this approach will strengthen long-term economic cooperation with China.

Pakistan’s IT sector is rapidly emerging as a leading export industry

Pakistan’s IT sector is rapidly emerging as a leading export industry
Pakistan’s IT sector is rapidly emerging as a leading export industry 1000 398 D. I. Khan New City

In December 2025, Pakistan recorded its highest-ever monthly IT exports at $437 million, reflecting a 22.7% increase month-on-month and a 25% rise year-on-year. During the first half of FY26, IT exports reached $2.2 billion, marking 20% growth compared to the same period last year.

What Is Pakistan Exporting?

Pakistan’s IT exports mainly include:

  • Software development
  • IT consultancy services
  • Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
  • Information and support services

The Gulf region remains the primary market, with expanding reach in North America and Europe.

Why Are IT Exports Growing?

Government Incentives and SBP Reforms

A major driver is the State Bank of Pakistan’s reforms, particularly the increase in the Exporters’ Specialised Foreign Currency Account (ESFCA) retention limit from 35% to 50%. This allows IT exporters and freelancers to reinvest earnings, manage foreign expenses, and expand globally with greater ease.

Global Expansion of IT Companies

Large IT firms such as Systems Limited, Contour Software, and ibex are scaling internationally. Systems Limited alone generates over 85% of its revenue from exports, with a strong presence in the Middle East and North America.

Rise of Freelancers

Pakistan’s freelance economy continues to grow rapidly. Freelancers contributed $400 million in FY2024, with exports expected to reach $800 million to $1 billion by the end of the current fiscal year.

Can Pakistan Reach $10 Billion in IT Exports?

Under the “Uraan Pakistan” plan, the government aims to achieve $10 billion in IT exports by 2028–29. While ambitious, sustained growth will depend on:

  • Investment in AI, automation, and advanced skills
  • Expansion into European and Asia-Pacific markets
  • Support for small and mid-sized IT companies 

The Way Forward

Pakistan’s IT export growth is encouraging, but long-term success requires policy continuity, infrastructure development, and talent upskilling. With the right focus, the IT sector can become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s digital economy.

Pakistan Issues Nationwide Alert Over Rising WhatsApp Account Hijackings

Pakistan Issues Nationwide Alert Over Rising WhatsApp Account Hijackings
Pakistan Issues Nationwide Alert Over Rising WhatsApp Account Hijackings 2560 1112 D. I. Khan New City



Pakistan’s National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) has issued a nationwide alert after a sharp rise in WhatsApp account hijacking incidents. Recently, cyber criminals have begun targeting users across all demographics. As a result, the threat has become a serious national cyber security concern.

Notably, attackers are not exploiting technical weaknesses in WhatsApp. Instead, they rely on social engineering techniques. In other words, hackers manipulate users into handing over access themselves, which makes awareness the most effective defense.

How Hackers Take Over WhatsApp Accounts

Primarily, cyber criminals use psychological tactics to deceive users. For example, National CERT reports that attackers often:

  • Trick users into sharing one-time passcodes (OTPs)
  • Send phishing links disguised as urgent alerts
  • Circulate malicious QR codes to link accounts to their own devices
  • Manipulate call-forwarding settings to intercept verification codes

Once access is gained, attackers immediately take control of the account. Consequently, they impersonate victims, scam contacts, steal private data, and spread harmful content.

Who Faces the Highest Risk?

Importantly, hackers target all versions of WhatsApp. These include:

  • Android and iOS versions
  • WhatsApp Business
  • WhatsApp Web and Desktop

Furthermore, users who do not enable two-step verification face the highest risk. Because of this, National CERT has classified the threat level as high due to the widespread nature of these attacks.





Consequences of WhatsApp Account Hijacking

Unfortunately, account hijacking can cause serious damage. In many cases, victims experience:

  • Identity theft
  • Financial fraud
  • Exposure of private conversations
  • Reputational damage
  • Privacy violations

Moreover, organizations also face risks when employees use WhatsApp for business communication. As a result, a single compromised account can expose sensitive corporate data.

How to Secure Your WhatsApp Account

To reduce risk, National CERT urges users to take immediate protective measures:

  • Enable two-step verification and add a recovery email
  • Never share OTPs or PIN codes with anyone
  • Regularly review linked devices
  • Avoid clicking links from unknown or suspicious messages
  • Treat urgent requests for money or codes with caution

By following these steps, users can significantly lower the chances of account takeover.

Steps to Recover a Compromised Account

If your account becomes compromised, act quickly:

  1. First, reinstall WhatsApp
  2. Next, verify your phone number again
  3. Then, reset all security settings
  4. Meanwhile, inform your contacts immediately
  5. Finally, report the incident to WhatsApp

However, if attackers enable two-step verification without a recovery email, WhatsApp may enforce a seven-day lockout before restoring access.

Stay Alert Against Cyber Scams

Ultimately, National CERT urges the public to remain vigilant as cyber criminals continue to evolve their tactics. Therefore, strong awareness and proactive security habits remain the best protection against WhatsApp-related cyber threats.

In conclusion, safeguarding your digital identity starts with informed decisions and responsible online behavior.

5G Spectrum Update: PTA Finalizes Information Memorandum for Auction

5G Spectrum Update: PTA Finalizes Information Memorandum for Auction
5G Spectrum Update: PTA Finalizes Information Memorandum for Auction 1000 332 D. I. Khan New City



Pakistan has taken a major step toward next-generation connectivity as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has finalized the Information Memorandum (IM) for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction. This development clears an important regulatory stage and brings the country closer to launching 5G services.

Sources confirm that the PTA will issue the IM shortly after formal approval, officially initiating the auction process.

Key Details Inside the Information Memorandum

The finalized IM defines the legal and regulatory framework for the 5G auction. It outlines the spectrum bands and blocks available for bidding. These bands come with technology-neutral usage rights, allowing operators flexibility in deployment.

To maintain fair competition, the document introduces spectrum caps. This prevents excessive concentration of frequencies with a single operator. The IM also explains the auction structure, bidding process, and rules in clear terms.

Eligibility criteria and participation conditions are also defined. These apply to both existing mobile operators and new entrants. The framework aligns with international telecom best practices.

Mobile Operators Confirm Participation

After the government issued its policy directive, CEOs of all cellular mobile operators met with Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja. The operators welcomed the decision to fix the dollar exchange rate on the auction day.

This move addressed a key industry concern. Following the meeting, operators confirmed their intention to participate in the auction. They also requested further clarity on quality-of-service standards and rollout obligations.

Tackling Pakistan’s Spectrum Shortage

Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated that Pakistan is one of the most spectrum-constrained countries in the region. She emphasized the importance of releasing nearly 600 MHz of spectrum.

This additional spectrum is expected to reduce network congestion. It will also improve mobile service quality and support rising data demand.

The government’s 5G policy directive, issued on January 7, 2026, includes fixed base prices and a locked dollar rate. It also offers flexible payment options and a 15-year license tenure. These measures aim to encourage investment and long-term stability.

What Comes Next for 5G in Pakistan

With the Information Memorandum finalized, the PTA is close to completing the regulatory process. Once issued, the authority will formally launch the auction.

Industry experts believe timely execution will strengthen Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure. It will also support digital growth, innovation, and economic development across multiple sectors.



Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 Complete List

Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 Complete List
Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 Complete List 1920 786 D. I. Khan New City

Planning ahead becomes easier when you know exactly when the public holidays fall. The Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 calendar includes national days, religious festivals, bank holidays, and observances that impact businesses, schools, and travel plans across the country.

Whether you’re organizing work schedules, planning vacations, or managing business operations, this complete guide to Pakistan’s public holidays in 2026 will help you stay prepared.

Complete List of Pakistan Public Holidays 2026

Below is the officially observed list of public and bank holidays in Pakistan for 2026:

  • January 1 (Thursday) – New Year Bank Holiday
  • February 5 (Thursday) – Kashmir Solidarity Day
  • February 19 (Thursday) – Start of Ramadan (Bank Holiday)
  • March 21 (Saturday) – Eid-ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
  • March 22 (Sunday) – Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday
  • March 23 (Monday) – Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday & Pakistan Day
  • May 1 (Friday) – Labour Day
  • May 27 (Wednesday) – Eid-ul-Azha
  • May 28 (Thursday) – Eid-ul-Azha Holiday & Youm-e-Takbeer
  • June 25 (Thursday) – Ashura (9th Muharram)
  • June 26 (Friday) – Ashura (10th Muharram)
  • July 1 (Wednesday) – July Bank Holiday
  • August 14 (Friday) – Independence Day
  • August 25 (Tuesday) – Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH)
  • November 9 (Monday) – Allama Iqbal Day
  • December 25 (Friday) – Quaid-e-Azam’s Birthday / Christmas
  • December 26 (Saturday) – Second Day of Christmas (for Christians)

Religious and National Significance

Pakistan’s holiday calendar reflects its cultural and religious diversity. Major Islamic events like Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, Ashura, and Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) are observed nationwide, while national days such as Pakistan Day, Independence Day, and Quaid-e-Azam’s Birthday honor the country’s history and leadership.

Christian communities also observe Christmas Day and Boxing Day, ensuring inclusivity across the nation.

How These Holidays Impact Businesses and Banks

  • Bank holidays affect financial transactions and clearing schedules.
  • Government holidays may lead to office closures and service delays.
  • Private businesses often adjust operations based on long weekends and religious events.

Advance planning helps businesses manage staffing, logistics, and customer expectations more effectively.

Why Planning Around Public Holidays Matters

Knowing Pakistan’s public holidays in advance allows individuals and organizations to:

  • Plan travel and vacations efficiently
  • Manage work deadlines and productivity
  • Schedule events and campaigns strategically
  • Avoid last-minute disruptions

With several holidays falling on weekdays in 2026, smart planning can help maximize time off.

Final Thoughts

The Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 calendar offers a balanced mix of religious, national, and cultural observances. Keeping this list handy will help you plan smarter—whether for work, travel, or family time.

Stay organized, plan ahead, and make the most of the year.

Arif Habib Consortium Wins PIA Privatisation Bid for Rs135 Billion

Arif Habib Consortium Wins PIA Privatisation Bid for Rs135 Billion
Arif Habib Consortium Wins PIA Privatisation Bid for Rs135 Billion 1920 786 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan reached a major milestone as the Arif Habib Consortium won the privatisation bid for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) with a record offer of Rs135 billion. This deal marks the government’s second attempt to privatise the national carrier and could reshape Pakistan’s aviation sector. The bidding process took place live and attracted strong national attention.

How the Bidding Unfolded

The privatisation auction saw intense competition.
The Lucky Group opened with a bid of Rs101.5 billion.
Airblue earlier submitted an offer of Rs26.5 billion.

The Arif Habib Consortium entered with Rs115 billion, leading the process. During open bidding, the consortium raised its offer to Rs135 billion, securing victory. The winning group will acquire 75% of PIA’s shares. It may purchase the remaining 25% within 90 days.
Under the privatisation plan, 7.5% of the proceeds will go to the government. The remaining amount will support PIA’s operational improvement and fleet modernization.

Who Makes Up the Arif Habib Consortium?

The consortium includes leading Pakistani organizations:

  • Arif Habib Limited
  • Fatima Fertilizer
  • The City School
  • Lake City Holdings

This diverse partnership brings financial strength, corporate governance, and long-term strategic vision.

Why This Privatisation Succeeded

Last year, the privatisation attempt failed. It attracted only one bid of Rs10 billion, far below expectations.

This year, the outcome changed due to major reforms.
The government absorbed over Rs650 billion in liabilities.
PIA’s equity improved from negative Rs45 billion to positive Rs30 billion.

Tax exemptions on aircraft leases and partial tax relief also boosted investor confidence.

PIA’s Financial Turnaround

PIA reported a net profit of Rs26.2 billion for FY2024. In 2023, the airline posted a loss of Rs75 billion. Operational margins now exceed 12%, placing PIA among competitive global airlines. The airline operates 38 aircraft, with 18 currently active. It holds landing rights at 78 international airports, including London, Paris, and Canada. U.S. operations remain suspended.

Fleet Expansion Plan: From 38 to 65 Aircraft

After winning the bid, Arif Habib announced plans to expand PIA’s fleet.
The airline will first restore operations to 38 aircraft.
In the next phase, the fleet will grow to 65 aircraft.

This expansion aims to improve connectivity, service quality, and international competitiveness.

Workforce and Asset Details

PIA reduced its workforce from 11,500 to around 6,500 employees.
The company guarantees job security for one year after privatisation.
Voluntary separation schemes may follow.

The PIA Holding Company will continue to pay pensions and benefits to retired staff.

The deal excludes high-value assets, including PIA-owned hotels in New York and Paris. The agreement covers core airline operations, cargo services, kitchens, and training facilities.

A Turning Point for Pakistan’s Aviation Sector

Privatisation will end years of financial strain on the national treasury. PIA’s losses previously cost billions of rupees annually. Although the government receives limited upfront cash, the long-term gains are significant. A profitable PIA will no longer rely on taxpayer support. Industry experts call this move a turning point. After 21 years of losses, PIA has a clear path toward sustainable growth.

Final Thoughts

The Rs135 billion acquisition sends a strong signal to investors. Pakistan can now execute large-scale reforms with transparency and confidence. If managed effectively, this deal can restore PIA’s reputation and set a new standard for state-owned enterprise reforms.

TikTok Launches Self-Serve Advertising in Pakistan to Empower S.B

TikTok Launches Self-Serve Advertising in Pakistan to Empower S.B
TikTok Launches Self-Serve Advertising in Pakistan to Empower S.B 1000 667 D. I. Khan New City

TikTok has officially launched its self-serve advertising platform in Pakistan, marking a major milestone for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to grow digitally. With the introduction of TikTok For Business Ads Manager, local entrepreneurs can now run advertising campaigns directly on the platform — without needing advanced marketing expertise or large budgets.

This move reflects TikTok’s growing commitment to Pakistan’s rapidly expanding digital economy and its vibrant small business community.

A Big Opportunity for Pakistani SMBs

Pakistan’s small businesses are among the most creative and resilient in the region. From home-based startups to emerging fashion labels and neighborhood stores, many already use TikTok organically to showcase products and engage audiences. The new self-serve Ads Manager now allows these businesses to take their growth to the next level through paid promotions that are simple, flexible, and performance-driven.

The platform enables businesses to:

  • Create and launch ad campaigns easily
  • Control and adjust budgets anytime
  • Reach highly engaged and relevant audiences
  • Track and optimize campaign performance in real time

All of this is available through an intuitive dashboard designed for users with little to no advertising experience.

Why TikTok Advertising Matters Now

TikTok has become a powerful discovery platform. According to a recent global study:

  • 73% of users discovered products they had never considered before through TikTok ads
  • 78% found new brands they hadn’t heard of previously

In Pakistan, TikTok is increasingly used for product reviews, trends, recommendations, and shopping inspiration. With self-serve advertising now live, businesses can directly join these conversations and place their brands in front of the right audience at the right time.

Built for Creativity, Not Complexity

One of TikTok’s biggest strengths is its creative-first approach. The Ads Manager comes with built-in creative tools that allow brands to tell authentic stories rather than rely on traditional, sales-heavy advertising.

Whether it’s short videos, storytelling content, or trend-based campaigns, TikTok encourages brands to stay genuine — something Pakistani audiences already respond strongly to.

Flexible Budgets, Smarter Targeting

Unlike traditional advertising platforms that require high upfront spending, TikTok’s self-serve Ads Manager supports flexible budgets, making it accessible for startups and growing businesses alike. Companies can start small, test performance, and scale as results improve.

The platform also offers intelligent performance targeting, helping brands get discovered by new users who are more likely to engage, follow, and convert.

Supporting Local Growth Beyond Ads

This launch builds on TikTok’s ongoing efforts in Pakistan, including initiatives like the #GrowWithTikTok Masterclass, which has already trained SMBs through hands-on workshops, creative guidance, and best practices.

Commenting on the launch, Baris Aldanmaz, Head of Global Business Solutions for Türkiye, Central and Southern Asia at TikTok, said that Pakistani small businesses are among the most creative in the region and that TikTok is proud to support their growth by making advertising more accessible and impactful.

What This Means for Businesses in Pakistan

With TikTok’s self-serve advertising now available, Pakistani SMBs no longer need agencies or complex setups to advertise effectively. Whether it’s an online startup, a fashion brand, or a local shop, businesses now have a powerful tool to:

  • Increase brand visibility
  • Drive product discovery
  • Engage new customers
  • Grow beyond geographical boundaries

As more consumers turn to TikTok for inspiration and purchasing decisions, this launch creates a timely opportunity for brands to establish their presence where attention already exists.

Final Thoughts

TikTok’s self-serve Ads Manager is more than just an advertising tool — it’s a growth enabler for Pakistan’s small business ecosystem. By combining creativity, affordability, and ease of use, TikTok is helping local brands compete, scale, and thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Pakistan’s First Driverless Car Marks a New Era in AI Innovation

Pakistan’s First Driverless Car Marks a New Era in AI Innovation
Pakistan’s First Driverless Car Marks a New Era in AI Innovation 1000 424 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan has taken a major leap toward the future of mobility. Engineers at NED University of Engineering and Technology have successfully conducted the test drive of the country’s first AI-powered driverless car, setting a groundbreaking milestone in Pakistan’s technology and automotive sectors.

During the trial run, the autonomous vehicle moved smoothly across the NED campus roads, surprising students, visitors, and faculty with its ability to operate without human control.

 

A Year of Research, Engineering & AI Development

The project was developed at the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence (NCAI) within NED University’s Department of Computer and Information Sciences. The engineering team spent a full year transforming a China-imported electric vehicle into a fully autonomous system.

To convert the car into a driverless vehicle, developers integrated:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Advanced robotics
  • Mapping and localization tools
  • Computer vision
  • Radar sensors
  • AI-driven algorithms

This combination enabled the vehicle to navigate, recognize objects, and respond to its surroundings.

 

Steering Control, Object Detection & Autonomous Navigation

According to Dr. Muhammad Khurram, Director of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and the project lead, the car has now reached a mature stage of testing after extensive development cycles.

The system currently includes:

  • AI steering control
  • Radar and computer-vision enhancements
  • Object and obstacle detection
  • Lane recognition
  • Speed-limit detection
  • Traffic signal identification

Additionally, the car maintains an internal safety speed of 15–20 km/h, making it ideal for controlled testing on university grounds. It can also turn autonomously and judge incoming traffic.

Team member Inzimam Khan highlighted that this vehicle is uniquely designed to handle Pakistan’s challenging road conditions, including uneven surfaces, unexpected obstacles, and irregular traffic patterns. Its high-resolution sensors and AI-powered perception systems give it an edge over many global prototypes.

 

A Project That Spans Leadership and Vision

The driverless car project began under the leadership of former Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Sarosh Hashmat Lodhi and has seen major progress under the current Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Tufail Ahmed.

Their combined support reflects NED University’s continued commitment to innovation, research, and technological advancement.

 

A Major Step Toward Pakistan’s Autonomous Future

The successful test of this AI-powered driverless car is more than just a technological achievement — it represents Pakistan’s growing capabilities in:

  • Autonomous vehicle systems
  • Artificial intelligence research
  • Robotics and automation
  • Smart mobility solutions

As engineers continue to refine object detection, traffic interpretation, and full autonomy systems, Pakistan is moving closer to joining the global race for intelligent transportation and self-driving innovation.

13 NICs Launched Across Pakistan to Accelerate Startup Growth

13 NICs Launched Across Pakistan to Accelerate Startup Growth
13 NICs Launched Across Pakistan to Accelerate Startup Growth 2560 1703 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan’s startup landscape is entering a new era of opportunity, innovation, and growth. In a major step toward strengthening the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) and the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) have jointly established 13 new National Incubation Centers (NICs) under the National Expansion Plan (NEP).

This expansion marks one of the most significant nationwide efforts to support early-stage startups and empower young entrepreneurs across Pakistan.

 

Expanding Startup Support Across Pakistan

Unlike earlier initiatives that were concentrated in major cities, the National Expansion Plan aims to make innovation accessible to every region. Therefore, all newly established NICs are located within universities to provide students and young founders easy access to training, mentorship, and incubation facilities.

Locations of the New Incubation Centers

The 13 NICs have been launched across six regions:

Punjab

  • Lahore
  • Rawalpindi
  • Gujrat
  • Taxila

Sindh

  • Karachi
  • Jamshoro
  • Sukkur

Balochistan

  • Quetta
  • Lasbela

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

  • Swat
  • Kohat

Gilgit-Baltistan

  • Gilgit

Azad Jammu & Kashmir

  • Muzaffarabad

This widespread geographic coverage ensures that innovators from remote and underserved regions now have the same opportunities as those in major urban centers.

 

National Expansion Plan: Strengthening Pakistan’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Launched in 2021, the National Expansion Plan (NEP) was designed to address a key challenge: most Pakistanis with entrepreneurial potential lack access to guidance, exposure, and resources.

Since its launch, the program has:

  • Received 124,000+ applications from across Pakistan
  • Successfully incubated 690 startups
  • Supported founders of which 25% are female entrepreneurs
  • Helped startups generate over Rs. 1.1 billion in revenue
  • Contributed to creating approximately 120,000 direct and indirect jobs

These numbers highlight the growing demand for structured startup support and the potential of Pakistan’s youth-led digital economy.

 

What Startups Receive: A Complete Zero-Equity Support Package

One of the most appealing aspects of NEP is its zero-equity model — meaning the government takes no share from the startups it supports. Instead, selected teams receive:

  • Monthly stipends
  • Free co-working spaces
  • Mentorship from industry experts
  • Business development guidance
  • Legal and financial assistance
  • National-level networking opportunities
  • Access to investor meetups and demo days

This holistic approach enables innovators to focus on building sustainable businesses without worrying about early-stage financial barriers.

 

Why This Matters for Pakistan

Pakistan’s startup ecosystem has shown impressive promise in recent years, especially in sectors like fintech, edtech, agritech, e-commerce, and health tech. However, many young entrepreneurs still struggle with limited access to resources, mentorship, and industry exposure.

The launch of these 13 new NICs fills that gap. Moreover, by embedding incubation centers directly into university environments, the initiative will help unlock fresh talent and encourage research-driven innovation.

Most importantly, this effort helps Pakistan shift toward a more digital, entrepreneurial, and job-creating economy — essential for long-term economic stability.

 

Looking Ahead

Pakistan’s expansion of incubation infrastructure signals a clear commitment to nurturing startups and supporting innovation at a national scale. As these centers begin operations, thousands of students and aspiring founders will finally receive the guidance and tools they need to transform ideas into thriving businesses.

With more opportunities now available across the country, Pakistan’s next wave of technology-driven entrepreneurs is just getting started — and the future looks brighter than ever.

Minhaj University Expands to D. I. Khan New City

Minhaj University Expands to D.I. Khan New City
Minhaj University Expands to D.I. Khan New City 2560 1707 D. I. Khan New City

Minhaj University Lahore (MUL) has taken a remarkable step toward educational progress with the groundbreaking of its new campus in D. I. Khan New City. This historic milestone marks the beginning of a new era in higher education for South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, Deputy Chairman of the Minhaj University Board of Governors, led the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony. During his address, he highlighted the university’s mission to provide quality education that nurtures both intellect and character.
He emphasized that this new campus will not just grant degrees but shape minds, fostering integrity, creativity, and moral strength.

A Milestone for South KPK

Vice Chancellor Dr. Sajid Mahmood Shahzad shared his vision of building a university that merges opportunity with innovation. He stated that the new D. I. Khan campus will serve as a “monumental institution of knowledge and research,” committed to empowering youth through education.

Dr. Shahzad noted that Minhaj University Lahore already educates over 15,000 students across ten faculties, with one in three students studying on scholarships. The D. I. Khan campus will continue this legacy — promoting equality, safety, and a drug-free learning environment.

 

Minhaj University Expands to D.I. Khan New City

Building Bridges Through Education

During the meeting, Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri discussed the global impact of Minhaj-ul-Quran’s educational institutions. He praised the efforts that have positively shaped communities in Pakistan and around the world.

Chairman Jahangir Saifullah Khan expressed that Minhaj-ul-Quran International is playing a vital role in the intellectual and moral training of the nation. He added that the establishment of Minhaj University’s campus in D. I. Khan is a blessing for local students, offering them access to world-class education close to home.

A Gathering of Visionaries

The ceremony brought together prominent figures, including:

  • Khawaja Khurram Nawaz Gandapur, Nazim-e-Aala, Minhaj-ul-Quran International
  • Prof. Dr. Sajid Mahmood Shahzad, Vice Chancellor MUL
  • Prof. Dr. Khurram Shahzad, Registrar
  • Faisal Hussain Mashhadi, Abdul Rehman Malik, and Engineer Sanaullah Khan
  • Raja Zahid Mahmood, Farhan Javed, Major (R) Salman Jahangir, and Khaliq Shah
  • Brigadier (R) Dr. Fayyaz Mahmood, Rana Tariq Ullah, Rana Asad, and Danesh Iftikhar

Each guest shared their appreciation for this transformative project, emphasizing its long-term benefits for the youth and the region.

Minhaj University Expands to D.I. Khan New City
Minhaj University Expands to D.I. Khan New City
Minhaj University Expands to D.I. Khan New City

A Vision for Peace and Progress

Minhaj University’s expansion into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reflects its broader mission: “Education for All.” The institution continues to promote peace, tolerance, and social change globally.
The D. I. Khan campus stands as a beacon of hope — where knowledge meets opportunity and dreams take shape.

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