|
P@SHA PULSE Vol 25. January 2025 Edition
|
|
|
|
|
Dear Members,
As we step into 2025, the first month has set a strong precedent for the year ahead. January was marked by impactful engagements, strategic collaborations, and policy dialogues aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s IT and ITeS sector.
From hosting the HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup in Hyderabad to signing multiple MoUs that foster industry partnerships, we continue to create platforms for networking, knowledge-sharing, and innovation. Our ongoing discussions with key government bodies, including FBR, SBP, MoITT, and the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce, reflect our commitment to shaping policies that empower IT exporters, streamline taxation, and enhance ease of doing business.
Collaboration remains at the heart of P@SHA’s vision. This month, we joined hands with MA Sky Technology, WebHR, CreditBook, and Chaayé Khana to bring exclusive benefits and support to our members. Meanwhile, our engagement in high-level forums, such as the Asian Development Bank’s Digital Transformation Workshop, positions Pakistan as a key player in the evolving global tech landscape.
Our focus on skills development also continues to gain momentum. The CXO Mentorship Program has successfully completed its second phase, setting the stage for meaningful mentor-mentee interactions that will shape the next generation of leaders.
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to amplifying Pakistan’s IT narrative, driving innovation, and advocating for policies that will take the industry to new heights. Thank you for your continued trust and support in making this journey possible.
Regards,
P@SHA CEC
By the Members, For the Members
|
|
|
|
January 9th, 2025
HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup Hyderabad
On 9th January 2025, HBL and P@SHA hosted a CXO Meetup Event in Hyderabad.
The event was attended by P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Syed, CEC Members Abdul Wahab, Hassan Bin Rizwan, Mohammad Munaf Majeed, Dr. Sonia Saleem, and P@SHA Secretary General Nadeem A. Malik. It provided a valuable networking opportunity for CXOs from various industries.
The event began with a welcome keynote by P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Syed, followed by a keynote by Mr. Shaharyar Ali, Regional Business Head at HBL. Khadija A., Senior Manager at HBL, delivered a product presentation, while Ayaz Ahmed U., a member of ISTD GOS, discussed the future of IT in Sindh. Dr. Sonia Saleem led an open discussion on industry expectations from academia, and Mr. Munaf Majeed, along with other members, engaged in a panel discussion on current industry challenges.
Additionally, during the event, P@SHA successfully signed multiple MOUs with key industry players, paving the way for future collaboration and innovation.
Mr. Sajjad Syed also presented the Guest of Honor Shields, making the event both enriching and memorable for all attendees.
|
|
|
|
January 8th, 2025
Coffee with HBL
On January 8, 2025, HBL & P@SHA hosted a special meetup for CXOs, creating a unique platform that allowed participants to:
- Network with fellow CXOs
- Explore exclusive banking benefits for P@SHA members
- Discuss IT export challenges directly with the HBL team
- Receive on-the-spot assistance for account opening at the HBL Helpdesk
|
|
|
|
28th January 2025
HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup Islamabad
On 28th January 2025, P@SHA hosted the HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup Event in Islamabad.
The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Mr. Zarrar Hasham Khan, Secretary IT, Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication, along with PSEB CEO Mr. Abu Bakar. Also present were P@SHA CEC Members Haris Naseer, Abdul Wahab, Hassan Bin Rizwan, Salman Dar, Sheikh Abdul Qadir, Usman Akbar, Nadia Iqbal, Secretary General Nadeem A. Malik, and the entire P@SHA Team.
The event kicked off with a welcome keynote from P@SHA CEC Member Abdul Wahab, followed by insightful speeches from Mr. Nadeem A. Malik, Mr. Abu Bakar, Mr. Zeeshan A. Malik, and Mr. Tipu Raza, who delivered a compelling product presentation, and the session was concluded with a special address from Chief Guest Mr. Zarrar Hasham Khan.
A memorable moment of the evening was when P@SHA was honored with a shield by the Gilgit Baltistan Delegates, and in return, P@SHA presented the Gilgiti Caps, adding a special touch to the event.
The evening was filled with meaningful conversations, valuable networking, and collaborative discussions that laid the foundation for future industry innovations.
|
|
|
|
January 29th, 2025
HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup Peshawar
On January 29, 2025, P@SHA and the Gilgit-Baltistan IT delegates had an insightful day, starting with the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) Industry Capacity Building Initiatives session at the Marriot Hotel.
After the session, they took a tour of the National Incubation Center NIC Islamabad, followed by a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, they attended the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication & PSEB Session, where key industry insights were shared.
The delegates then visited LMKR and LMKT, where they learned about their partnership and the work they’re doing to support the tech ecosystem.
Later, they visited Contour Software, where they not only engaged with tech professionals but also participated in an insightful session on effective sales and strategies.
The day concluded with a warm and engaging dinner, marking the perfect end to a productive and collaborative experience!
|
|
|
|
January 27th - 31st , 2025
P@SHA Hosts Gilgit-Baltistan IT Delegation for an Immersive Tech Exploration
P@SHA had the privilege of hosting 20 IT companies from Gilgit-Baltistan as they embarked on a week-long journey to explore Pakistan’s thriving technology sector. The delegation participated in high-impact meetings, networking sessions, and industry visits, unlocking new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Day 1: Engaging Discussions & B2B Networking
The delegation kicked off their journey on January 28, 2025, with a warm welcome by P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Syed, CEC Member Salman Dar, Nadia Iqbal, and Secretary General Nadeem A. Malik. The day featured an orientation session, followed by the P@SHA x AKRSP Roundtable, fostering meaningful industry discussions. The delegates later explored BYOC - Buy Your Own Coffee Islamabad, where they networked over lunch, setting the tone for an exciting week ahead.
Day 2: Industry Insights & Corporate Visits
On January 29, 2025, the delegation attended the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) Industry Capacity Building Initiatives session at Marriott Hotel. They then visited NIC Islamabad, engaging with startups and tech innovators. Later, they attended the Ministry of IT & PSEB Session, gaining valuable industry insights. Visits to LMKR, LMKT, and Contour Software provided firsthand exposure to cutting-edge tech solutions and effective sales strategies. The day concluded with an insightful networking dinner.
Day 3: Exploring Peshawar’s Tech Ecosystem
The delegation’s journey took them to Peshawar on January 30, 2025, where they engaged with KPITB, NIC Peshawar, and Innovista Peshawar, exploring groundbreaking innovations. The day’s highlight was the HBL P@SHA CXO Meetup Peshawar at Serena Hotel, where they networked with top industry leaders, fostering new collaborations.
Day 4: Training, Skill Development & Final Networking
On January 31, 2025, the delegates attended an insightful session by British Council and NAVTTC, followed by a training workshop by Sheheryar Hyderi at Daftarkhwan Alpha, attended by P@SHA Vice Chairman Raheel Iqbal. They later explored Innovista Rawalpindi, met with the General Manager of AKRSP, and participated in a session on Effective Sales and Client Pitching. The journey concluded with a farewell dinner at The Lost Tribe in F11 Markaz before departing back to Gilgit-Baltistan.
A Transformative Experience for GB’s IT Sector
This immersive week-long engagement provided Gilgit-Baltistan’s IT companies with invaluable industry exposure, strategic networking, and skill-building opportunities—marking a major milestone in their growth journey. P@SHA remains committed to fostering innovation, industry linkages, and collaboration to drive Pakistan’s IT sector forward.
|
|
|
|
January 1st, 2025
P@SHA X Chaayé Khana
On January 1st, 2025, P@SHA and chaaye' khana (Lake City, Lahore) proudly signed an MOU to host 12 exclusive CXO meetups in collaboration with elevAID, Ingenious Concepts, and Appsgenii.
This partnership, signed by Abdul Wahab Ahmad (P@SHA CEC Member and Chair IE Committee) and Ali Afzal (Founder of elevAID), is set to bring the tech and business communities closer, fostering innovation and growth.
|
|
|
|
January 9th, 2025
P@SHA X MA Sky Technology
On January 9th, 2025, P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Syed and MA SKY Technology CEO Muzzamil Athar, signed a beneficial MOU, strengthening their partnership.
This collaboration brings exclusive discounts and tailored support to P@SHA member organizations, while MA Sky Technology will work closely with P@SHA to drive innovation and deliver impactful results.
|
|
|
|
January 9th, 2025
P@SHA X WebHR & CreditBook
On January 9th, 2025, P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Syed signed two impactful MoUs with WebHR Director Mr. Zeeshan Abro and CreditBook, marking the beginning of an exciting strategic partnership. Through the integration of WebHR's PayDay and CreditBook, this collaboration introduces a payroll credit facility for P@SHA's members, making payroll financing and repayment management seamless and convenient.
|
|
|
|
January 9th, 2025
P@SHA X BACP
On 28th January 2025, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between P@SHA Chairman Mr. Sajjad Syed and the President of the Business Association for Cooperation with Pakistan (BACP), Mr. Jawad Rehman.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Jabbar Khan, CEO of Synercon, and Saadat Ullah Khattak, Director of Synercon. This MOU signing was made possible through the facilitation of Synercon Technologies.
|
|
|
|
January 1st, 2025
Federal Board of Revenue
On January 1, 2025, P@SHA met with FBR to discuss the key areas of focus for the IT & ITeS sector in the Federal Budget 25-26. Representing P@SHA were SG Nadeem Malik, Policy & Government Affairs Manager Laraib Farhat, Policy & Government Affairs Lead Gulraiz Iqbal, and tax consultant Shariffuddin Khilji. Dr. Najeeb Ahmed, Member (Inland Revenue), represented FBR. The discussion focused on incentivizing the IT sector, transitioning freelancers to enterprises, implementing an open data policy, and signing IT agreements.
FBR emphasized structural transformation over blanket exemptions, with the Ministry of Law reviewing legal aspects. Targeted investments in hardware and software were suggested, along with strategies to boost IT adoption. It was also noted that while computers are assembled locally, large-scale manufacturing is lacking.
|
|
|
|
January 15th, 2025
P@SHA's Participation in Senate Standing Committee on Commerce Meeting
On January 15, P@SHA engaged with the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce for a briefing by the Trade and Investment Officers (TIOs) of the Ministry of Commerce. Representing P@SHA were CEC member Abdul Wahab Ahmad and Research Lead Kashif Hussain.
P@SHA highlighted the importance of "Brand Pakistan" and "Made in Pakistan," emphasizing brand identity and sectoral collaboration. The committee appreciated P@SHA’s efforts in positioning Pakistan as a tech destination and driving export growth. It encouraged continued participation in future consultations, including sectoral meetings and the development of the national eCommerce policy 2.0.
|
|
|
|
January 21st, 2025
Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication
On January 21, P@SHA met with the Ministry of IT and Telecom to discuss industry-specific issues related to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Representing P@SHA were Policy & Government Affairs Manager Laraib Farhat, SG Nadeem Malik, Chairman Sajjad Syed, and CEC member Salman Dar. The meeting included representatives from SBP, Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), FBR, and PAFLA.
P@SHA's presentation emphasized removing SBP's prior approval requirements, addressing tax concerns to prevent capital flight, and proposing legal changes to facilitate payments from special currency accounts without withholding tax. Discussions with FBR focused on reducing the compliance burden and refining tax policies, while SBP provided updates on digital payment initiatives, freelancer earnings, and remittance trends.
Key takeaways included SBP’s commitment to addressing transaction charges with banks, the need for industry case studies on tax and banking issues, and exploring an Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) for services. Additionally, a framework to distinguish freelancers from remote workers was proposed, and the Ministry of Finance was tasked with assessing the benefits of Roshan Digital Accounts (RDA) for IT exports.
|
|
|
|
January 27th - 30th, 2025
Asian Development Bank
From January 27-30, P@SHA actively participated in the four-day workshop organized by the Ministry of IT & Telecom (MOITT) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This high-level gathering convened industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to shape a robust digital roadmap for Pakistan.
The workshop focused on key pillars of digital transformation, including Digital Economy, Digital Government, Digital Infrastructure, and Digital Citizenship. P@SHA contributed valuable industry insights and expertise to drive discussions on fostering innovation, strengthening e-governance, and enhancing Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.
This engagement reaffirms P@SHA’s commitment to advancing Pakistan’s digital future and collaborating with key stakeholders to unlock new opportunities for growth and connectivity.
|
|
|
|
January 31st, 2025
Sub-Working group meeting with Federal Board of Revenue
On January 31, 2025, P@SHA participated in the first meeting of the Sub-Working Group on FBR-Specific Issues for the ICT industry, organized by MoITT and PSEB. The meeting brought together representatives from FBR, SBP, PAFLA, and industry stakeholders to discuss taxation and regulatory challenges affecting the IT sector.
Key topics included withholding tax on ESFCA transactions, income tax exemptions, freelancer taxation, and export facilitation for IT services. FBR agreed in principle to address these issues, while P@SHA, PSEB, and PAFLA were tasked with defining freelancer classifications. The meeting concluded with commitments to refine tax policies and improve support for IT exports.
|
|
|
|
Central Executive Committee
P@SHA CEC at Grand Opening of TechWink Pvt Ltd
On January 1st, 2025, Mr. Hassan Bin Rizwan, P@SHA CEC Member, had the honor of presiding as the Chief Guest at the grand opening of TechWink Pvt Ltd. The event marked a significant milestone for the company as it steps into a new chapter of innovation and growth. With his insightful presence and inspiring words, Mr. Hassan Bin Rizwan highlighted the importance of technological advancements and collaboration in shaping the future. It was an exciting day, filled with optimism for the opportunities ahead.
|
|
|
|
January 14th, 2025
Meeting on Taskforce on Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Pakistan
Mr. Sheikh Abdul Qadir (Member Managing Committee, P@SHA) represented P@SHA and attended the meeting Taskforce on Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Pakistan on 14th January 2025 at the Ministry of Planning and Development & Special Initiatives held under the Chairmanship of the Honorable Minister of Planning and Development.
|
|
|
|
January 18th, 2025
P@SHA at PNY Conference 2025!
On January 18, 2025, P@SHA Vice Chairman Raheel Iqbal attended the Pakistan National Youth - PNY Conference 2025 as the Chief Guest at the Royal Palm Golf and Country Club, Lahore.
With his visionary leadership and groundbreaking contributions to technology and innovation, Mr. Raheel Iqbal delivered an inspiring address that lit a spark of hope and ambition among the young audience. His words motivated the youth to dream bigger, work harder, and become the driving force behind a brighter and better Pakistan.
|
|
|
|
January 23rd, 2025
Meeting on Assessment of Existing HPC Capacity in Pakistan
Mr. Sheikh Abdul Qadir (Member Managing Committee, P@SHA) represented P@SHA and attended the meeting on Assessment of Existing HPC Capacity in Pakistan Taskforce on Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Pakistan on 23rd January 2025 at the Ministry of Planning and Development & Special Initiatives held under the Chairmanship of the Honorable Minister of Planning and Development.
|
|
|
|
Skills Committee
CXO Mentorship Program
The program completed the second phase of applications. Members registered to become mentors and mentees. Mentor-mentee pairings have been finalized, and the first round of mentorship sessions is set to begin next month. Participants will engage in one-on-one sessions to foster professional growth.
|
|
|
|
British Council session with the Delegation from Gilgit Baltistan and AKRSP
P@SHA held an informative and interactive session with the delegation from Gilgit Baltistan. Dr. Nasir Khan, Team Lead from The British Council spoke to the delegation explaining the plans of TVET enhancement and Skills Development across GB under the EU funded project. The delegation provided key input and feedback in terms of what is required and how the British Council can make the program more effective and aligned with the industry. The delegation stated that including P@SHA in the board of Centres of Excellence and hubs will be key in aligning the interventions with the industry’s demands.
|
|
|
|
Meeting with SIFC - Future of Jobs
Salman Dar, P@SHA CEC member along with Aleem Abbas, Manager Skills Development attended a meeting scheduled by SIFC to learn about the future of Jobs and HR in the continuously changing IT ecosystem. P@SHA provided the input on key areas including the skills development needs and design of short term mid term and long term interventions at all educational levels. The future skills needs can be addressed through we designed interventions at K to 12 levels.
|
|
|
|
Roundtable HEC-NCEAC Forum: The Art of Teaching Programming and Quality of Graduates
On January 27, 2025, P@SHA participated in the Roundtable held at a forum organized by HEC - NCEAC: The Art of Teaching Programming and Quality of Graduates: Academia and Industry Rendezvous. Salman Dar (CEC Member) and Mudassir Naeem Choudhry (Skills Committee member) attended the initiative with the aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry by focusing on improving programming education and aligning it with industry needs.
|
|
|
|
Gaming & Publishing Committee
Meeting at MOITT
Raheel Iqbal, VC P@SHA and Aleem Abbas and Safa Hassany from the Secretariat along with the P@SHA Games and Publishing Committee met with Ministry of IT and Telecom Pakistan (MoIT), Ignite - National Technology Fund, Pakistan Software Exchange Board, to discuss how the Gaming Industry can grow from 500 Million USD to 1Billion in the next couple of years. The meeting was chaired by Secretary IT, Mr Zarar Hasham and focused on collaborative efforts to promote and strengthen the gaming ecosystem in the country.
|
|
|
|
P@SHA x USAID-ERDA
The secretariat attended the 2nd capacity building session of Gamepreneurship at the Business Incubation Center, University of Peshawar.
The session, MoC’ed by Safa Hassany, was initiated with a presentation by Aleem Abbas on the current landscape of the Games industry and its potential in the future, followed by presentations and panel discussions by Hilal Khan- Chair IGDA, Omer Khokhar from Maida Technologies and Talha bin Afzal CEO Algoryte.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| January 1st, 2025 |
|
| ScitForte Wins CXO Entrepreneur Award 2025 for Excellence in ESG and IBS Platforms |
|
Scitforte is proud to announce its victory at the CXO Entrepreneur Awards 2025, recognized for its innovative contributions to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and IBS (Integrated Business Solutions) platforms. Our diverse product line, including HRMS, ERP systems, and HSE reporting solutions, continues to make a significant impact across industries. Additionally, our Fattening ERP platform streamlines operations for clients in the agriculture sector. We are proud of our team and the work we do to drive meaningful change, empowering businesses with advanced software solutions.
View Website
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| January 8th, 2024 |
|
| Cisco’s Sr. Product Mgr. Leads Session on AI Innovations & Market Growth Strategies at Sybrid Islamabad Office |
|
Sybrid hosted a thought-provoking session led by Cisco's Senior Product Manager, Huma Hamid, at its Islamabad office. Attended by Sybrid’s leadership teams both in-person and online, the session focused on leveraging AI for digital transformation, creating scalable platforms, and driving product-led growth. With over 17 years of global tech experience, Huma shared best practices for building AI-driven experiences and fostering innovation. Her insights inspired teams to embrace cutting-edge strategies to stay competitive. Sybrid remains dedicated to empowering its teams with growth opportunities to drive excellence and innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.
View Website
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| January 9th, 2025 |
|
| Sybrid Formalizes Strategic Partnership with PSW to Enhance Service Excellence |
|
Sybrid hosted the MoU signing ceremony with Pakistan Single Window (PSW) at its Karachi office, marking a milestone in enhancing customer support and operational efficiency. Sybrid, a leader in BPO services, will manage PSW’s customer touchpoints using advanced tools to ensure seamless user experiences. This partnership also supports initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurship Program (WEP) and Port Community System (PCS), aligning with Pakistan’s vision for economic growth.
View Website
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leap 2025
LEAP 2025 is a premier global tech event that combines cutting-edge technology showcases, B2B networking opportunities, and expert-led conferences. The event is hosted at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center in Malham and spans 17 content tracks, including AI, SportsTech, and Startup ecosystems. It is a must-attend for tech innovators, businesses, and investors.
|
|
|
|
Web Summit Qatar 2025
We are excited to announce that P@SHA is organizing a delegation to attend Web Summit Qatar 2025!
Web Summit Qatar brings together thousands of global entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders as part of a transformative five-year journey aimed at positioning Doha as a hub for global tech innovation. This event promises to inspire and usher in cutting-edge advancements for the region and beyond.
Event Details:
- Date: February 23–26, 2025
- Location: Doha, Qatar
- Payment: 200,000
- Deadline: 7th Feb 2025
|
|
|
|
| Secretariat |
|
Daftarkhwan Vanguard, 5-A Constitution Avenue, F-5/1, F-5, Islamabad
|
|
|
|
|
|
