Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, has announced major new initiatives to boost Pakistan’s industrial and technological growth. Chairing a high-level meeting with the CEOs of Technology Upgradation and Skill Development Company (TUSDEC) and Pakistan Industrial Technical Assistance Centre (PITAC), he outlined projects in mining, digital skills, artificial intelligence, and food processing.
The government aims to establish a Mining and Mineral Processing Technology Center, a Women Digital Skills Development Center, and an Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twin Center. These steps are part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision to align Pakistan with modern global industrial practices. Haroon Akhtar stressed that both PITAC and TUSDEC must learn from international models and replicate them locally for long-term growth.
He highlighted upcoming projects, including seafood processing, modern abattoirs, and meat packaging facilities across the country. Drawing from his international visits, he pointed to Uzbekistan’s Techno Park and global AI institutes as examples Pakistan should follow. He also announced a Research and Development Center in Gujranwala to encourage industrial innovation.
The SAPM appreciated PITAC’s training programs, which now include modern skill development and English language courses for students. He emphasized the importance of equipping both men and women with advanced skills to stay competitive in the global job market.
Key Initiatives Announced by Haroon Akhtar Khan
| Project / Initiative | Purpose / Focus |
| Mining & Mineral Processing Tech Center | Boost mining sector with modern technology |
| Women Digital Skills Development Center | Empower women with digital training |
| AI & Digital Twin Center | Advance Pakistan’s role in artificial intelligence |
| Seafood Processing & Meat Facilities | Improve food processing, packaging, and storage |
| R&D Center in Gujranwala | Promote industrial innovation and growth |
| Modern Skills & Language Training | Enhance student competitiveness globally |
These initiatives reflect the government’s strategy to modernize industries, develop skilled human capital, and position Pakistan to keep pace with global technological advancements.