Punjab Launches IT Internship Program to Empower Young Graduates

In a major step toward empowering young people and strengthening the technology sector, the Government of Punjab has launched a large-scale IT Internship Program for recent graduates. 

The initiative, led by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional experience, helping thousands of young Pakistanis kick-start their careers in the ever-growing digital economy.

The program was inaugurated at the Arfa Software Technology Park in Lahore, where senior officials, industry representatives, and education leaders gathered to celebrate the initiative.

According to PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf, the program reflects the provincial government’s vision to prepare Punjab’s youth for global opportunities in information technology and software development.

A Step Toward Digital Empowerment

Every year, thousands of IT graduates enter Pakistan’s job market, but many struggle to find relevant experience. The Punjab IT Internship Program directly addresses this challenge by offering practical exposure to the IT industry. Over the next two years, around 2,000 young graduates from across Punjab will be placed in registered IT companies for paid internships.

Each internship will last five months, allowing participants to work alongside experienced professionals and gain hands-on experience in real business environments. To make the program accessible for everyone, each selected intern will receive a monthly stipend of PKR 50,000, a generous support that removes the financial barriers often faced by new graduates.

The government has also ensured support for partner companies. Each IT firm hosting interns will receive PKR 12,500 per intern per month to cover training, mentorship, and administrative costs. This partnership model encourages private sector participation while maintaining high-quality training standards.

Who Can Apply

The program is open to students who have completed a 16-year degree in fields such as computer science, information technology, or software engineering within the last four years. Applicants must be domiciled in Punjab and possess a valid CNIC.

Interested graduates can apply through PITB’s official portal, where they will take an online assessment test. Successful candidates will then be shortlisted for interviews conducted by participating companies. The selection process is designed to be transparent and merit-based, ensuring equal opportunity for all qualified applicants.

A Bridge Between Education and Employment

Speaking at the launch, PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf emphasized the program’s importance, saying that the initiative is not just about temporary placements, it’s about giving graduates the chance to experience real-world projects, teamwork, and client management. 

“Punjab produces thousands of IT graduates every year, but many struggle to transition from classrooms to workplaces. This program will help bridge that gap and equip our youth with the skills that employers truly need,” he said.

The program also aims to strengthen Punjab’s growing IT ecosystem. Nearly 64% of Pakistan’s IT companies operate within the province, and with the country’s IT exports crossing USD 3.8 billion in 2024–25, the demand for skilled talent is rising rapidly. By connecting graduates with these companies, the Punjab government hopes to boost productivity and innovation across the sector.

Benefits for Interns and IT Companies

The benefits of this program go both ways. For young graduates, it provides an invaluable opportunity to learn directly from industry experts, build professional networks, and enhance their employability.

Many participants are expected to secure permanent jobs after completing their internships, creating a steady pipeline of trained professionals for the industry.

For IT companies, the program offers access to enthusiastic and educated young talent at no additional cost. The government’s monthly financial support helps offset the expenses of training and mentoring, making it easier for smaller firms to participate. 

It also encourages companies to invest in the professional growth of their interns, ensuring meaningful learning experiences rather than routine tasks.

Promoting Inclusive Growth

One of the most notable aspects of the program is its inclusivity. The Punjab government has directed PITB to ensure that students from all regions of the province, including smaller cities like Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, and Sargodha, are represented.

By decentralizing opportunities, the initiative supports youth from less-developed areas who often face challenges accessing Lahore or Islamabad’s larger job markets.

The program also encourages gender diversity in the IT field. Female graduates, in particular, are encouraged to apply and benefit from this government-backed opportunity, promoting greater inclusion and equal participation in the tech workforce.

A Vision for the Future

Experts believe this program could be a game-changer for Pakistan’s IT industry. With the global demand for digital services increasing, the country is aiming to boost its IT exports to USD 10–18 billion by 2028. 

Programs like this one are critical to achieving that target, as they not only produce skilled professionals but also build confidence among employers about the capabilities of Pakistani talent.

Moreover, the program’s structure—combining classroom knowledge with real-world experience—can serve as a model for other provinces. By investing in practical learning and industry partnerships, the government is creating a sustainable system that aligns education with market needs.

Looking Ahead

The Punjab IT Internship Program represents hope and opportunity for thousands of young Pakistanis eager to enter the tech world. It offers more than just financial support, it offers direction, mentorship, and a clear pathway to career success.

As the first batch of interns begins their journey, expectations are high. If implemented effectively, this initiative could become one of Punjab’s most impactful employment programs, creating a ripple effect that strengthens both individuals and the economy.

For many graduates, this isn’t just an internship—it’s the beginning of their professional story. And for Punjab, it’s another confident step toward becoming a true digital hub of South Asia.