Pakistan has stepped into the global semiconductor arena with the launch of INSPIRE (Initiative to Nurture Semiconductor Professionals for Industry, Research & Education), a landmark programme aimed at strengthening the country’s technology base and building a knowledge-driven digital economy.
A Major Leap Toward Technological Self-Reliance
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled the initiative in Islamabad, calling it a milestone in Pakistan’s digital transformation. Led by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) and executed by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), INSPIRE is Pakistan’s first National Semiconductor Initiative.
The programme connects Pakistan to the $600 billion global semiconductor ecosystem, which is expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030. It aims to position the country as a serious contender in this fast-growing sector.
Training 7,200 Professionals Across Pakistan
Over the next five years, 7,200 professionals will receive training in semiconductor design, verification, and research. The programme will involve nine public-sector universities and establish six Integrated Circuit (IC) labs nationwide.
Funded with Rs 4.5 billion under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), the project has full government backing. The prime minister assured that funding would not be an obstacle to its implementation.
Preparing Youth for the Industries of Tomorrow
Speaking at the launch, Shehbaz Sharif said the initiative would prepare Pakistan’s youth for the industries of the future. “Through this initiative, we are laying the foundation of a new economic frontier, one where Pakistan contributes talent, technology, and innovation to the world,” he stated.
He also highlighted ongoing digital reforms, including the establishment of the Pakistan Digital Authority, the digitisation of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and efforts to create a cashless economy.
The prime minister praised the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for enabling public–private collaboration and driving investment in high-tech industries.
Building a Sustainable Semiconductor Ecosystem
Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said INSPIRE represents a move toward an inclusive, technology-driven economy that empowers youth and women with globally relevant skills.
Dr Naveed Sherwani, Chairman of the National Semiconductor Task Force, presented the roadmap to develop a world-class semiconductor ecosystem. PSEB CEO Abu Bakar described the initiative as a cornerstone for Pakistan’s indigenous tech capacity, linking academia, research, and industry.
Laying the Foundation for Future Growth
INSPIRE forms the first phase of Pakistan’s National Semiconductor Development Roadmap. It will pave the way for Outsourced Assembly & Testing (OSAT) and fabrication capabilities, integrating Pakistan into the global semiconductor supply chain.
With INSPIRE, Pakistan enters a new chapter of digital transformation, defined by innovation, opportunity, and global collaboration, a decisive move toward technological self-reliance and competitiveness in the trillion-dollar semiconductor industry.
Related stories:
