SUKKUR (Dec 17): In a significant effort to promote 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).
This was stated by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Science Lab and Creative Art Centre at the IBA Campus. He added that these programs underscore the provincial government’s commitment to uplifting communities, bridging the digital divide, and preparing the youth for a technology-driven future.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Speaker Sindh Assembly Awais Qadir Shah, Minister P&D Syed Nasir Shah, Minister Excise & Taxation Mukesh Chawla, MPA Syed Farukh Shah, PPP President Javed Shaikh, VC IBA Prof Dr Asif Shaikh, Secretary IT Noor Samo, Commissioner Sukkur Fayaz Abbasi and others.
The CM said that the PITP, launched as part of the Pro-Poor Capacity Building Program, represents a historic investment of Rs 500 million aimed at enhancing IT-related skills across Sindh. He said that the program has bee implemented through three premier universities—NED University of Engineering & Technology in Karachi, Mehran University of Engineering & Technology in Jamshoro, and Sukkur IBA University. “This program is reshaping the province’s educational and economic landscape,” he said.
Murad Shah said that with an ambitious goal of training 13,428 individuals by May 2025, PITP equips students and professionals with certifications in cutting-edge technologies, including Java development, data science, and digital marketing.
The CM said that the program’s impact was evident from the fact that the first batch has graduated 1,714 students, who now serve as pioneers in Sindh’s IT landscape. He added that the second batch is currently underway, with an additional 4,000 trainees on track to complete their training.
Discussing its inclusive approach, Mr Shah said that the PITP ensures access to quality education for students across Sindh, including rural areas like Mithi and Umerkot. He disclosed that 300 laptops have been awarded to top-performing students, promoting a culture of excellence and innovation.
The CM said that PITP was more than just a training program; it was a movement to empower our youth, bridge the digital divide, and position Sindh on the map as a hub of IT talent.
CRAIB: The chief minister said that in addition to PITP, Sukkur IBA University has established the Centre of Excellence in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain (CRAIB), a pioneering initiative funded by the Sindh Government under the Annual Development Program (ADP) Scheme 2020-21 for Rs 149.627 million.
Mr Shah said that CRAIB aims to transform Sindh’s technological landscape by advancing research, education, and entrepreneurship in emerging fields such as robotics, AI, and blockchain. The centre’s key objectives include producing highly skilled graduates and patentable research, developing commercial solutions for real-world challenges, publishing high-impact research generating intellectual property and fostering collaborations with international centres of excellence.
Aligned with Pakistan’s Vision 2025, CRAIB will significantly contribute to human capital development, entrepreneurship, and the establishment of a knowledge-based economy, the CM said and added that this initiative highlights Sukkur IBA University’s leadership in technological innovation and its mission to empower communities through education and research.
Murad Shah said that the dual focus of the Sindh Government on PITP and CRAIB reflects a visionary approach to education and technology. “While PITP equips individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global market, CRAIB lays the groundwork for groundbreaking advancements in emerging technologies,” the CM said and added that together, these initiatives create opportunities, uplift communities, and pave the way for Sindh’s socio-economic development.
As these programs gain momentum, they promise to position Sindh as a leader in innovation, talent development, and digital transformation, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
Earlier, VC Asif Shaikh briefed the chief minister about the newly constructed building and CRAIB program. Those who spoke on the occasion were Speaker Sindh Assembly Awais Qadir Shah, Minister P&D Syed Nasir Shah, Secretary U&B Noor Samo, VC IBA Prof Asif Shaikh.
The CM awarded medals and certificates to the successful graduates of the PITP.
