Pakistan Wins Bid to Host ASOCIO 2026 – Successfully Pitched by P@SHA

Pakistan has officially won the bid to host ASOCIO 2026, following a compelling national pitch presented by P@SHA. This landmark achievement places Pakistan at the center of Asia’s digital and technology ecosystem, opening new doors for collaboration, investment, and global visibility. P@SHA’s strong leadership, strategic positioning, and unified industry representation played a pivotal role in securing this win. Hosting ASOCIO 2026 will spotlight Pakistan’s innovation potential and strengthen regional partnerships across the ICT landscape. This milestone marks a proud moment for the country and a major step forward for our tech industry.

November 10th - 12th, 2025

P@SHA at ASOCIO Digital Summit 2025 – Taipei

P@SHA participated in the ASOCIO Digital Summit 2025 in Taipei from November 10–12, engaging with regional leaders to strengthen digital collaboration across Asia-Oceania. The P@SHA delegation — Sajjad Syed (Chairman), Ali Hasani (Secretary General), and Zain Tariq (Manager Industry Engagement) — met with Taiwan’s Minister of Digital Affairs, TISSA leadership, and ASOCIO Council members to explore partnerships and promote Pakistan’s ICT ecosystem.

Key Engagements:

- P@SHA discussed digital cooperation and strategic opportunities with Taiwan’s Minister of Digital Affairs to strengthen bilateral tech collaboration.

- The delegation met TISSA leadership to explore joint initiatives and deeper engagement between Pakistan and Taiwan’s software industries.

- P@SHA participated in ASOCIO Council discussions focused on regional innovation, policy alignment, and advancing ICT collaboration across Asia-Oceania.

Four Pakistani companies — Cybarea, EPL, SnSkies, and Phaedra — represented the country at the summit, showcasing innovative solutions and connecting with industry leaders.

Pakistan achieved exceptional success at the ASOCIO Awards 2025, securing wins in all seven nominated categories, reflecting the country’s growing capabilities in technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Winners by Category:

- Outstanding Tech Company Award: EPL Limited

- Outstanding Digital Transformation Organization Award: Tech Implement

- Talent Development Award: Cybarea (Pvt) Ltd

- HealthTech Award: Nubit Software (Pvt) Ltd

- Cybersecurity Award: SNSKIES

- Start-Up Award: Z Media Technologies

- AI Service Provider Award: Phaedra Solutions

Additionally, Dr. Shoab Khan contributed as a panelist in the “Greener Tomorrow” session, sharing insights on sustainability and emerging technologies.

P@SHA’s participation reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to regional engagement and its expanding presence in the global digital landscape.

November 15th, 2025

HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup Gilgit — Empowering the North!

For the first time in Gilgit, the HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup brought together leaders, policymakers, innovators, and the tech community for an evening focused on collaboration, growth, and regional inclusion.

The event was powered by Title Sponsor HBL, supported by ITCN Asia as the Gold Sponsor, USF as the Strategic Partner, AKRSP in partnership with the Government of Canada as the Communication Partner, and GBSHA as the Outreach Partner.

The session opened with a Welcome Note by P@SHA CEC Member Nadia Iqbal, followed by remarks from the Chairman of GBSHA on the region’s growing momentum and the potential of its young talent.

Dr. Sonia Saleem, P@SHA CEC Member and Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Sub Committee, delivered the Keynote Address highlighting GB’s untapped potential, the importance of empowering local talent, and building an inclusive digital ecosystem.

P@SHA Senior Vice Chairman Muhammad Umair Nizam shared insights on national collaboration and connecting GB with Pakistan’s wider tech landscape. Ch. Mudassir Naveed, CEO of USF, spoke about expanding digital access and regional connectivity. P@SHA Secretary General Ali Hasani discussed enabling GB’s companies, freelancers, and startups through P@SHA’s platforms.

Representatives from HBL also joined the session, including Sihat Ali, Asif Naeem, and Rasheed Alam.

P@SHA's Gilgit-Baltistan IT & ITeS Sector Diagnostic Report was launched during the event by the report's principal author and Lead Researcher, Kashif Hussain. He presented the report's key findings, including a phased 5-year strategic roadmap for the region's IT sector enhancement. The report’s concept and throughout guidance during compilation process was provided by CEC member from Gilgit, Nadia Iqbal.

A panel discussion moderated by Laraib Farhat featured Riaz Ahmad (Secretary IT, Gilgit-Baltistan), Brigadier Syed Nadir Hussain Shah (Project Director for IT & Telecom at SIFC), Muhammad Zohaib Khan (Former Chairman, P@SHA), and Nadia Iqbal (CEC Member, P@SHA). The conversation explored GB’s digital economy, opportunities for youth, and the path toward a more connected and inclusive future.

P@SHA Shields were presented to distinguished contributors for their efforts in advancing Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.

We also acknowledge the participation of the P@SHA Secretariat team including Zain Tariq, Laraib Farhat, Shafeh Mahmood, and Kashif Hussain.

November 20th, 2025

Romania Pakistan IT Forum - Webinar

The inaugural Romania–Pakistan IT Forum webinar arranged by P@SHA in collaboration with the Romanian Embassy in Pakistan and ANIS brought together key government and industry leaders, including Romania’s Minister of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Tourism Mr. Radu-Dinel Miruță, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Science and Technology Mr. Khalid Hussain Magsi, Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan Dr. Dan Stoenescu, Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Romania Mr. Ilyas Nizami, President ANIS Mr. Edward Crețescu, and Chairman P@SHA Mr. Sajjad Syed in a session coordinated by CEC Member P@SHA Mr. Salman Dar. 

The forum highlighted Pakistan's impressive IT export growth in recent years and Romania's significant GDP contribution from its IT sector, with both ministers emphasizing the substantial untapped potential in bilateral cooperation. Minister Miruță proposed creating a structured list of common priorities with a follow-up meeting, while multiple Pakistani companies, including Mercurius Mind, Alforce Technology, and Bitdefender's local partner A2Z Creators, shared successful collaboration experiences. 

The webinar concluded with commitments for B2B matchmaking initiatives, reciprocal delegation visits, and Romania serving as Pakistan's strategic gateway to European markets, with current bilateral IT trade presenting significant room for expansion.

November, 2025

P@SHA x Annual Cyber Security Conference Pakistan 2025

P@SHA is proud to partner with leading organizers and industry experts from Digital Leaders, EPL, Identity 360 Global, Keytaab, CBA, and CyberCure for the Annual Cyber Security Conference Pakistan 2025, taking place on 3rd December in Islamabad. This conference brings together national voices to strengthen Pakistan’s cybersecurity landscape and build a more resilient digital future.

November 12th, 2025

National Workshop on AI Use-case Development

On Wednesday 12th November, the National Workshop on AI Use Case Development was held. Organized by MoITT, Ignite, and the Asian Development Bank, the workshop brought together policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to develop practical AI use cases across key sectors such as EdTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, FinTech, ClimateTech, and GovTech.

Laraib Farhat, Manager Policy & Govt. Affairs, and Gulraiz Iqbal, Policy & Govt. Affairs Lead, represented P@SHA at the workshop. The sessions focused on turning ideas into workable solutions and helping policy translate into action. This engagement is part of P@SHA’s ongoing efforts to contribute to national conversations on emerging technologies and their role in Pakistan’s digital future.

November 16th, 2025

Report Findings Presented at Coalition of Employers Event by AKRSP

On Sunday, November 16, P@SHA’s Research Lead, Kashif Hussain, was invited by AKRSP to present the key findings of Gilgit-Baltistan IT & ITeS Sector Diagnostic Report at the Coalition of Employers (CoE) event in Gilgit. The presentation focused on critical challenges and opportunities in GB’s IT sector and emphasized a phased, actionable roadmap for the next five years. P@SHA’s CEC member from Gilgit, Nadia Iqbal, the conceptual advisor of the report was also present at the event. She provided guidance throughout the report’s compilation process.

Kashif shared recommendations for improving infrastructure, skilling youth, attracting investment, and expanding market access, highlighting the importance of collaborative action between the government, private sector, and development partners. The session reinforced the report’s vision for enabling Gilgit-Baltistan’s transition into a vibrant digital economy.

Distinguished guests — Muhammad Umair Nizam (Senior Vice Chairman, P@SHA and Chief Guest at CoE), Zohaib Khan (Former Chairman, P@SHA) , and Brig. Syed Nadir Hussain Shah (Project Director for IT & Telecom at SIFC) — were also in attendance, demonstrating national-level support for GB’s digital advancement. The participation of USF CEO Ch. Mudassir Naveed further highlighted the importance of expanding digital access and strengthening public–private collaboration in the region. As the Outreach Partner for the CoE event, P@SHA’s presence reinforced its continued commitment to supporting Gilgit-Baltistan’s emerging digital ecosystem.

Central Executive Committee

November 18th, 2025

P@SHA Chairman at Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) Pakistan!

On 18th November, Sajjad Syed (Chairman, P@SHA) attended the Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) Pakistan, held in Lahore, where he was invited to deliver the closing remarks.

In his address, Sajjad Syed highlighted the importance of empowering youth in digital policy, internet governance, and emerging technologies. He appreciated the efforts of organizers, speakers, and young participants who are contributing to building a more secure, inclusive, and innovative digital ecosystem for Pakistan.

The APIGA Pakistan gathering served as a powerful platform for learning, dialogue, and inspiration bringing together voices committed to advancing internet governance in the region!

November 20th, 2025

MIUC Business Symposium – AXIS 2025

MIUC proudly welcomed Dr. Sonia Saleem, Founder & CEO of Socio Engineering Technologies as a distinguished speaker at Business Symposium: AXIS 2025. The event, themed “Redefining Business Boundaries Through Integrated AI Experiences,” explored how AI is reshaping global business landscapes. Dr. Sonia shared her vision on building tech-driven solutions and fostering sustainable development, offering students and professionals invaluable insights into the future of AI-powered business ecosystems.

November 28th, 2025

P@SHA x Indus Hospital: Advancing Technology for Community Healthcare

On 28th November 2025, the P@SHA Industry Engagement Committee, led by Co-chair Mohammad Munaf Majeed, met with the Indus Hospital team to explore how the technology sector can uplift Pakistan’s healthcare landscape. This first-of-its-kind collaboration aims to support Indus Hospital’s telemedicine and outreach services—especially in remote areas- through the expertise and equipment offered by P@SHA members at no additional cost. The discussion reaffirmed our sector’s commitment to social impact and highlighted how improved tech solutions can address critical healthcare challenges. Indus Hospital shared its vision for expanding accessible care, and together, we look forward to driving initiatives that ensure technology truly serves the greater good.

November 28th, 2025

P@SHA Participates in FPCCI IT Committee Meeting to Advance Cross-Sector Digital Collaboration

On 28th November 2025, P@SHA CEC Member Muhammad Munaf Majeed (Industry Engagement Co-Chair) and Ali Hasani (Secretary General) attended the 2nd Meeting of the FPCCI Central Standing Committee on IT at the FPCCI Head Office, Karachi, and via Zoom. Convened by Mr. Khushnood Aftab, the meeting focused on collaborative opportunities to drive automation, digital innovation, and improved trade processes across the IT, automotive, and spare parts sectors.

Representatives from the Pakistan Motorcycle Spare Parts and Dealers Association and the Pakistan Automobile Spare Parts Importers and Dealers Association also participated. Discussions centered on leveraging technology to boost sectoral growth, efficiency, and innovation.

November, 2025

CEC Member at National Day of Romania Reception

Dr. Sonia Saleem was invited by H.E. Dr. Dan Stoenescu, Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan, to celebrate Romania’s National Day. The reception provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen ties between Pakistan and Romania, especially as both nations experience rapid growth in the IT sector. With new avenues for collaboration, innovation and investment emerging Dr. Sonia looks forward to building deeper technological and economic partnerships that will benefit both countries.

November, 2025

Dr Sonia Attended the B2B Meeting with Russian Delegates

Dr. Sonia Saleem participated in a productive B2B meeting with Russian delegates this November. The discussions focused on exploring collaborative opportunities in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. The meeting highlighted Pakistan’s growing role in the global IT ecosystem and opened pathways for potential partnerships with Russian counterparts. Dr. Sonia emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration in driving digital transformation and fostering mutual growth across industries.

Skills Committee

November 6th, 2025

P@SHA X British Council Webinar on English Solutions

On November 5th, 2025, P@SHA, in collaboration with the British Council, organized a webinar on the English Solutions Program. The session was engaging and interactive, introducing Corporate English Solutions, a suite of customized English learning and professional communication programs designed to enhance workplace communication and employability. Initiated by the P@SHA Secretariat Team and led by the British Council, it featured three key pathways: English Online Self-Study, English for Work, and Professional Skills. The webinar also addressed findings from P@SHA’s Skills Survey Report, identifying communication gaps and presenting tailored English programs as practical solutions. Participants actively engaged, with hosts responding comprehensively to their queries.

November 7th, 2025

Industry Advisory Board meeting in DUET Karachi

Aleem Abbas, Manager Skills Development at P@SHA, attended the inaugural Industry Advisory Board (IAB) meeting at Dawood University alongside the Faculty of Computer Science. During the session, he provided guidance on aligning the university’s curriculum with current industry requirements and explored avenues for strengthened Industry–Academia collaboration, particularly in internships and Final Year Projects (FYPs). The university expressed a strong commitment to ensuring its graduates are better equipped with the skills and competencies demanded by the IT industry.

November 26th, 2025

Learning Lab at WECON Masawat 2025: Hands On Digital Insights For The Next Era (British Council and P@SHA)

P@SHA and the British Council jointly led the Learning Lab at WECON Masawat 2025 in Islamabad. The session was conducted by Aleem Abbas (P@SHA) and Muhammad Qureshi (British Council), who provided key insights on emerging technology trends and the growing significance of digital skills in today’s economy. The discussion also explored how advancements in AI are reshaping industries and transforming the future of jobs.

November, 2025

P@SHA Launched Master Class Program for CXO's

In November 2025 P@SHA relaunched its Master Classes for C-level executives and senior leadership. The first session will be conducted by Sadia Jafferey focusing on Leadership and Emotional Intelligence, and is designed to offer a practical and engaging learning experience for CEOs and department heads. The session will be conducted online via Zoom on December 10 at 4:00 PM. The registrations for the first master class are open until December 05, 2025.

Click the link below for registration:

November, 2025

Meetings with PSEB for the Upcoming Projects

P@SHA participated in multiple rounds of meetings to plan the upcoming bootcamps, internships and certification programs with PSEB. These programs are aimed at bridging the industry-academia gap through short term interventions.

November, 2025

Meetings with HEC and MOITT on Centralized Testing

P@SHA had multiple steering committee meetings during the month of November with the government departments to design and implement a centralized assessment test for IT graduates. This initiative aims to establish a uniform evaluation standard across all universities, ensuring equal opportunities for students from institutions of every tier. It also seeks to strengthen accountability by providing a clear measure of university performance based on graduate outcomes.

Diversity & Inclusion Committee

Dr. Sonia Saleem Leads Gender-Inclusive Policy Dialogue at WECON Masawaat 2025

Dr. Sonia Saleem, Chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee and P@SHA CEC Member, chaired a high-impact roundtable at WECON Masawaat 2025 on “Gauging Intended Impact: Gender Lens on Policy Design & Implementation for Entrepreneurs.” supported by Zain Tariq (Manager IE P@SHA) and Khawar Mehmood (IE Lead P@SHA) Drawing on her extensive work in DEI, EdTech, AI, and digital inclusion, Dr. Sonia offered strategic insights on how gender-responsive policies can be effectively designed and implemented to create equitable entrepreneurial opportunities. Her leadership brought a multidimensional perspective to the conversation, fostering actionable dialogue on inclusive growth. The session took place on 26th November 2025 at the Pak-China Friendship Center, Islamabad, bringing together key voices shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Pakistan. The roundtable was moderated by Farah Taufiq and Shafqaat Shah and was attended by representative from UN Women, World Bank, Corporate Sector and Non-Profits.

We proudly welcome the newest members of the PASHA community. Together let's forge a path for industry growth, success, and a better economic future powered by IT.

December 12th, 2025

HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup - Multan 2025

P@SHA is hosting the HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup in Multan. This exclusive gathering will bring together senior executives, founders, and industry leaders for high-level conversations focused on innovation, digital growth, and strategic collaboration within Pakistan’s tech ecosystem.

January 6th-9th, 2025

P@SHA Delegation to CES 2026

We are pleased to announce that CES 2026, the world’s premier consumer technology show, will take place from January 6 to 9, 2026, in Las Vegas, USA.