Pakistan has taken a major step towards developing its largest-ever gaming and animation industry as Ignite National Technology Fund, a subsidiary of the Ministry of IT, signed an agreement with Hum Network Limited to establish a Centre of Excellence in Gaming and Animation. The initiative is being hailed as a milestone for the country’s creative economy.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of IT and Telecom and attended by Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, along with senior representatives from Ignite and Hum Network, including Momina Duraid and Duraid Qureshi.
Speaking at the event, Minister Khawaja emphasized that the government is committed to promoting technology and creative industries. She noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif believes investing in youth is not an expense but a long-term investment in the country’s future. She added that Pakistan’s IT industry currently generates around $400 million in output, but with initiatives like this, the government aims to expand it to $200–300 billion in the next three years.
Under the agreement, 200 startups will be incubated over the next five years, while 10,000 young people will receive training in gaming, animation, and interactive content creation through courses and workshops. A modern co-working space with 100 free seats will also be established for young creative minds.
Hum Network CEO Duraid Qureshi described the project as not just about technology but about enabling dreams and talent. “We are building a home for every creative idea and mind,” he said. Momina Duraid added that investing in youth today will yield long-term benefits for the nation, stressing the importance of marketing tools to promote the industry and give youth visibility.
Ignite’s General Manager, Bilal Abbas,i highlighted that some countries earn more from a single blockbuster game than entire economies generate, stressing the importance of Pakistan entering this space. Ignite CEO Rafiq A. Buriro said the initiative will provide global-standard skills and infrastructure to the youth while advancing the government’s digital vision.
The Centre of Excellence in Gaming and Animation is seen as a landmark initiative that will not only generate new business and job opportunities but also position Pakistan as an emerging hub for gaming and animation in the region.
