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Pakistani freelancers outperform earn record $1.76 billion

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LAHORE – Pakistan’s freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during fiscal year 2025-26, marking a 78 per cent increase compared to $984 million recorded in FY25, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The latest figures underline the growing role of Pakistan’s freelance workforce in strengthening the country’s digital economy and increasing export earnings through global online platforms.

IT Freelancers Lead Export Growth

According to the SBP data, IT freelancers generated more than $1.16bn during FY26, compared with $779m in the previous fiscal year. The increase of 49pc, equivalent to $385m, highlights continued demand for Pakistani software developers, programmers, designers and other technology professionals in international markets.

Meanwhile, non-IT freelancers recorded even stronger growth. Their export earnings climbed to $592m during FY26 from $205m in FY25, reflecting a 188pc increase, or $387m, over the period.

Freelancers Strengthening Pakistan’s Economy

Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin said freelancers continue to make a significant contribution to Pakistan’s economy by bringing valuable foreign exchange into the country while supporting tax revenues.

He said Pakistan’s freelancing community has rapidly become one of the country’s strongest export sectors, surpassing several traditional industries within a relatively short period. According to Amin, Pakistani freelancers are improving their livelihoods while helping create a more productive, skilled and digitally empowered workforce.

Pakistan Among World’s Largest Freelancing Markets

Industry estimates suggest Pakistan is home to nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers, making it the fourth-largest freelancing workforce globally.

PAFLA President and Chief Executive Officer Dr Imran Batada said expanding digital skills programmes is essential to prepare young Pakistanis for opportunities on international freelancing and digital platforms. He said wider access to digital education would help reduce unemployment, alleviate poverty and further increase export earnings.

Focus on AI and Digital Skills

Dr Batada said PAFLA plans to expand its free digital skills training programmes over the coming year, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. He encouraged freelancers to move beyond project-based work by establishing startups or registered companies while continuously upgrading their skills in emerging technologies.

Dr Batada also welcomed the government’s support for the freelancing industry through favourable tax policies and skills development initiatives, saying these measures would further accelerate the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy

Key Points:

  • Pakistani freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in FY26, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data.
  • Freelance earnings increased 78% from $984 million in FY25.
  • IT freelancers generated over $1.16 billion, up 49% year-on-year.
  • Non-IT freelancers contributed $592 million, recording a 188% increase.
  • Pakistan is estimated to have nearly three million freelancers, making it the world’s fourth-largest freelancing workforce.
  • Industry leaders called for greater investment in AI, data analytics and digital skills training to sustain growth.

 

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Education

Why Is the Scope of Medical Degree in Pakistan Declining?

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Is MBBS losing value in Pakistan?
This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

LAHORE – For decades, becoming a doctor was considered one of the safest and most respected career choices in Pakistan. Families invested years of effort and millions of rupees because an MBBS degree was seen as a guaranteed path toward financial stability and social respect. 

However, the reality has started changing. 

Today, many medical graduates are questioning whether spending five years studying medicine still guarantees a successful career. Increasing competition, limited training opportunities, rising education costs, and difficulties in finding well-paid jobs have created uncertainty among students. 

The changing scope of medical degree in Pakistan has become a major concern for thousands of aspiring doctors and their families. 

Why is the medical degree devaluing?

This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

Is MBBS Still a Secure Career Option in Pakistan? 

For many years, MBBS was considered a profession with guaranteed demand. Doctors were respected, employment opportunities were available, and specialization often led to better career prospects. 

However, the situation has become more complicated. 

Pakistan now produces a large number of medical graduates every year, while the number of quality training positions and employment opportunities has not increased at the same pace. 

As a result, many young doctors face challenges such as: 

  • Limited house job opportunities  
  • Difficulty finding permanent positions  
  • Low starting salaries  
  • Delayed specialization  
  • Increased competition  

The problem is not that Pakistan does not need doctors. The country still faces major healthcare challenges. Instead, the issue is a mismatch between the number of graduates entering the field and the opportunities available to them. 

 

Why Is the Scope of Medical Degree in Pakistan Decreasing? 

  1. Too Many Graduates and Limited Opportunities

One of the biggest reasons behind the changing medical career landscape is increasing competition. 

Over the years, the number of medical colleges and medical seats has expanded. The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) maintains lists of recognized public and private medical colleges across the country.  

However, expanding the number of graduates without creating enough: 

  • Hospitals  
  • Training positions  
  • Research opportunities  
  • Specialist jobs  

creates pressure on the healthcare job market. 

Consequently, many graduates struggle to find opportunities that match their qualifications. 

 

Are Medical Graduates Facing Job Problems in Pakistan? 

Why Are Young Doctors Struggling After MBBS? 

Completing an MBBS degree is only the beginning of a doctor’s career journey. 

After graduation, doctors usually require: 

  • House job training  
  • Postgraduate specialization  
  • Clinical experience  

However, competition for these opportunities has increased. 

Many young doctors complain about: 

  • Long working hours  
  • Low salaries during early career stages  
  • Limited postgraduate seats  
  • Uncertainty about career progression  

Online discussions among medical graduates also frequently highlight concerns about job availability, low initial earnings, and increasing competition in the profession.  

As a result, some graduates consider leaving Pakistan or switching career paths. 

 

How Are Rising Medical Education Costs Affecting Students? 

Has Becoming a Doctor Become Too Expensive? 

Another major challenge is the increasing cost of medical education. 

Private medical colleges have become increasingly expensive for many Pakistani families. Reports have highlighted concerns that private MBBS education costs can become unaffordable, especially for students who cannot secure government medical college admission.  

Although authorities have discussed fee regulation, including proposals around private medical college tuition caps, affordability remains a major concern for students.  

For many families, the financial calculation has changed. 

A student may spend years and significant resources completing medical education, but the return on investment may take much longer than expected. 

 

Why Are Pakistani Doctors Moving Abroad? 

Is Brain Drain Reducing the Value of Medical Careers in Pakistan? 

A significant number of Pakistani doctors choose to move abroad after graduation. 

Popular destinations include: 

  • United Kingdom  
  • United States  
  • Gulf countries  
  • Australia  

Doctors often seek: 

  • Better salaries  
  • Improved working conditions  
  • Advanced training opportunities  
  • Professional growth  

While overseas opportunities can benefit individual doctors, large-scale migration creates challenges for Pakistan’s healthcare system. 

The country invests in training doctors, but many eventually provide their services elsewhere. 

 

Is Pakistan Producing More Doctors Than It Can Support? 

Is There a Gap Between Medical Education and Healthcare Planning? 

Pakistan’s healthcare system faces a unique contradiction. 

On one hand, the country needs more healthcare professionals, especially in rural and underserved areas. 

On the other hand, many newly qualified doctors struggle to find suitable career opportunities. 

This shows that the problem is not simply the number of doctors. 

Instead, Pakistan needs better planning involving: 

  • Hospital expansion  
  • Rural healthcare development  
  • Specialist training programs  
  • Research opportunities  
  • Better employment structures  

Without proper planning, producing more graduates alone will not solve healthcare problems. 

 

What Are the Effects of a Declining Medical Career Scope? 

The changing medical career landscape affects both students and the healthcare system. 

  1. Students May Avoid Medical Education

If students believe medicine no longer provides stable career opportunities, fewer talented individuals may choose the profession. 

This could affect the future quality of healthcare workers. 

 

  1. More Doctors May Leave Pakistan

Limited opportunities can encourage more graduates to search for careers abroad. 

This increases pressure on Pakistan’s healthcare system. 

 

  1. Healthcare Quality Could Face Challenges

When doctors face financial stress, poor working conditions, and limited growth opportunities, it can affect motivation and retention. 

A strong healthcare system requires not only trained doctors but also a supportive professional environment. 

 

Is Medical Degree Still Worth It in Pakistan? 

Despite these challenges, medicine remains an important and respected profession. 

Doctors continue to have opportunities through: 

  • Specialization  
  • Private practice  
  • Research  
  • Teaching  
  • International careers  

However, students now need realistic expectations. 

Choosing medicine only because of social pressure or the belief that it guarantees wealth may not be enough. 

Future doctors need: 

  • Passion for healthcare  
  • Long-term commitment  
  • Awareness of career challenges  
  • Willingness to continue learning  

 

What Can Pakistan Do to Improve the Future of Medical Education? 

Pakistan needs reforms that connect medical education with healthcare requirements. 

Important steps include: 

Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure 

More hospitals and training centers can create additional opportunities for graduates. 

Improving Doctor Employment Conditions 

Better salaries, working environments, and career pathways can help retain doctors. 

Strengthening Medical Training 

Quality education and practical clinical exposure should remain priorities. 

Better Workforce Planning 

The government needs accurate planning about how many doctors the country requires and where they are needed. 

 

Key Points:

  • Increasing competition: More medical graduates are entering the field, creating pressure on available opportunities.  
  • Limited jobs: Many doctors struggle with employment and postgraduate training opportunities after MBBS.  
  • Expensive education: Private medical education has become financially challenging for many families.  
  • Doctor migration: Many Pakistani doctors move abroad for better salaries and career growth.  
  • Healthcare planning issues: The country needs better coordination between medical education and healthcare demand.  
  • Changing expectations: MBBS is no longer viewed as an automatic guarantee of financial success.  
  • Need for reforms: Better hospitals, training programs, and employment structures are required.  

Conclusion: Is the Golden Era of MBBS in Pakistan Ending? 

The medical profession in Pakistan is not disappearing, but the traditional belief that an MBBS degree automatically guarantees success is changing. 

The real challenge is not the value of medicine itself. Instead, it is the growing gap between the number of medical graduates and the opportunities available to them. 

For Pakistan to protect the future of healthcare, it must focus on creating better career pathways for doctors while ensuring students receive quality medical education. 

A medical degree will always carry respect, but in today’s Pakistan, passion alone is no longer enough. Proper planning, opportunities, and reforms are needed to restore confidence in the profession. 

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Editorial

How Is Load-Shedding Poisoning Pakistan’s Economy?

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How Is Load-Shedding Poisoning Pakistan’s Economy?
This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

LAHORE – A few hours without electricity may appear to be a temporary inconvenience, but load-shedding poisoning Pakistan’s economy has become a serious national challenge. Behind every power outage is a chain reaction that affects factories, businesses, workers, students, healthcare services, and ordinary households. 

Pakistan’s electricity crisis is no longer limited to homes facing darkness. Instead, it has become an economic issue that affects production, investment, employment, and the cost of living. 

Whenever a factory stops operating, valuable production hours are lost. Similarly, when a small business struggles without electricity, daily income declines. At the same time, companies that depend on generators face higher costs, which eventually increase prices for consumers. 

Although Pakistan has expanded its electricity generation capacity, problems such as circular debt, transmission losses, expensive fuel, and weak distribution systems continue to create power shortages.

How Is Load-Shedding Poisoning Pakistan’s Economy?

This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

Why Does Load-Shedding Continue in Pakistan? 

Load-shedding occurs when electricity demand exceeds supply or when technical and financial problems prevent the smooth distribution of power. 

Several factors contribute to Pakistan’s energy crisis, including: 

  • Circular debt in the power sector  
  • High electricity generation costs  
  • Transmission and distribution losses  
  • Electricity theft  
  • Aging infrastructure  
  • Growing electricity demand  
  • Slow energy sector reforms  

Over the years, Pakistan has invested in increasing electricity production. However, generation alone cannot solve the crisis because the country also needs an efficient transmission and distribution network. 

Furthermore, financial problems within the power sector make it difficult to maintain a stable and affordable electricity supply. 

 

How Is Load-Shedding Poisoning Pakistan’s Industrial Growth? 

Are Electricity Shortages Reducing Factory Production? 

The industrial sector is among the biggest victims of Pakistan’s electricity crisis. 

Factories depend on continuous power to operate machinery, complete orders, and maintain production schedules. However, frequent outages force many industries to reduce working hours or rely on expensive backup energy sources. 

As a result, industries experience: 

  • Lower production capacity  
  • Higher operational costs  
  • Delayed export shipments  
  • Reduced competitiveness  
  • Financial losses  

Pakistan’s textile sector, which plays an important role in exports, has repeatedly highlighted energy shortages as a major challenge. 

Moreover, when industries cannot operate efficiently, the impact spreads throughout the economy. Lower production affects exports, government revenue, and employment opportunities. 

Therefore, industrial losses remain one of the clearest examples of how load-shedding poisoning Pakistan’s economy is affecting national progress. 

 

How Does Load-Shedding Affect Small Businesses in Pakistan? 

Are Small Businesses Struggling Because of Electricity Shortages? 

Small businesses often face the greatest pressure during power outages because many cannot afford expensive backup solutions. 

For shopkeepers, restaurants, workshops, and home-based businesses, electricity is directly connected to daily earnings. 

Power shortages create several challenges: 

  • Reduced working hours  
  • Lost customers  
  • Higher fuel expenses  
  • Equipment problems  
  • Lower profits  

For example, a bakery cannot prepare products without electricity, while a workshop cannot operate machines during prolonged outages. 

Meanwhile, small businesses are already dealing with inflation and increasing costs. Therefore, unreliable electricity creates additional financial pressure for entrepreneurs. 

 

How Is Load-Shedding Increasing Inflation in Pakistan’s Economy? 

Why Are Electricity Shortages Making Life More Expensive? 

One of the biggest economic effects of load-shedding is its impact on prices. 

When businesses experience power cuts, many depend on diesel generators and alternative energy sources. Consequently, their production expenses increase. 

These additional costs often reach consumers through higher prices of: 

  • Food items  
  • Manufactured products  
  • Industrial goods  
  • Services  

Moreover, electricity is connected with almost every part of the economy. Therefore, an unstable power supply makes controlling inflation more difficult. 

In this way, load-shedding poisoning Pakistan’s economy does not only affect businesses but also reduces the purchasing power of ordinary citizens. 

 

How Is Load-Shedding Affecting Jobs and Employment? 

Can Electricity Shortages Increase Unemployment? 

A weak energy system creates serious challenges for Pakistan’s employment market. 

When industries face production problems, companies may delay expansion, reduce working hours, or cut jobs. 

This situation especially affects workers in: 

  • Manufacturing industries  
  • Textile factories  
  • Small businesses  
  • Daily wage sectors  

Furthermore, daily wage workers often experience immediate financial losses because fewer working hours directly affect their income. 

A reliable electricity system is essential because businesses cannot expand and create jobs without stable infrastructure. 

 

How Is Load-Shedding Slowing Pakistan’s Economic Growth? 

Can Pakistan’s Economy Grow Without Reliable Electricity? 

Economic growth depends on productivity, and productivity depends heavily on energy availability. 

When electricity shortages disrupt businesses, Pakistan faces: 

  • Lower industrial output  
  • Reduced exports  
  • Less investment  
  • Higher production costs  
  • Weak business confidence  

As a result, power shortages become a major barrier to economic development. 

Although other economic factors also influence GDP growth, a stable electricity system remains one of the most important foundations for long-term progress. 

 

Is Load-Shedding Affecting Foreign Investment in Pakistan? 

Can Investors Trust an Economy With Energy Problems? 

Foreign investors usually consider energy reliability before entering a market. 

Companies need confidence that factories, offices, and supply chains can operate without frequent disruptions. 

However, repeated electricity shortages create concerns regarding: 

  • Production delays  
  • Increased costs  
  • Business uncertainty  
  • Lower profitability  

Consequently, improving Pakistan’s energy system is not only necessary for citizens but also important for attracting international investment. 

 

How Does Load-Shedding Affect Education in Pakistan? 

The impact of electricity shortages extends beyond businesses and industries. 

Students often struggle during: 

  • Exam preparation  
  • Online classes  
  • Evening study hours  

Similarly, schools and universities face difficulties with: 

  • Computer labs  
  • Digital learning facilities  
  • Classroom conditions during extreme weather  

As a result, students without reliable electricity access often face additional educational challenges. 

 

How Does Load-Shedding Affect Healthcare Services? 

Healthcare facilities require uninterrupted electricity for essential operations. 

Power shortages can disrupt: 

  • Emergency services  
  • Medical equipment  
  • Laboratories  
  • Vaccine storage  
  • Patient care systems  

Although many hospitals use backup generators, prolonged outages increase operational expenses. 

Therefore, reliable electricity is not only an economic requirement but also a matter of public health and safety. 

 

How Does Load-Shedding Change Daily Life in Pakistan? 

For ordinary citizens, electricity shortages affect almost every aspect of daily life. 

Families experience problems with: 

  • Cooling during hot weather  
  • Food preservation  
  • Remote work  
  • Online education  
  • Household appliances  

Additionally, many households spend extra money on: 

  • Solar panels  
  • UPS systems  
  • Batteries  
  • Generators  

These expenses reduce savings and create further financial pressure, especially for middle and lower-income families.  

Can Pakistan Stop Load-Shedding From Poisoning Its Economy? 

Pakistan needs long-term energy reforms instead of temporary solutions. 

Improve Transmission and Distribution 

Upgrading outdated infrastructure and reducing electricity losses can improve supply reliability. 

Expand Renewable Energy 

Increasing solar and wind energy projects can reduce dependence on expensive imported fuels. 

Resolve Circular Debt 

Addressing financial problems within the power sector is necessary for creating a sustainable energy system. 

Improve Energy Sector Management 

Better governance, reduced electricity theft, and stronger planning can help build a more reliable electricity network. 

 

Key Points: 

  • Industrial losses: Electricity shortages reduce factory production, increase costs, and affect exports.  
  • Business problems: Small businesses lose working hours, customers, and income due to frequent power outages.  
  • Higher inflation: Companies pass increased energy costs to consumers, making products and services more expensive.  
  • Employment challenges: Reduced industrial activity affects jobs and income opportunities.  
  • Slower economic growth: Power shortages reduce productivity, investment, and GDP growth potential.  
  • Foreign investment concerns: Energy instability makes Pakistan less attractive for some investors.  
  • Education disruption: Students face difficulties with studying, online learning, and digital access.  
  • Healthcare risks: Hospitals require stable electricity to provide uninterrupted services.  
  • Household pressure: Families spend more on alternative energy solutions during prolonged outages.  
  • Need for reform: Pakistan requires better infrastructure, renewable energy expansion, and stronger power sector management.  

 

Conclusion: Can Pakistan’s Economy Recover Without Fixing Its Energy Crisis? 

Load-shedding poisoning Pakistan’s economy is not simply about electricity disappearing for a few hours. Its effects continue through lost production, higher prices, fewer job opportunities, and weaker economic confidence. 

Pakistan’s economic future is closely connected with its ability to build a reliable and affordable energy system. 

Ultimately, solving the electricity crisis means more than keeping homes powered. It means protecting businesses, creating jobs, attracting investment, and giving the economy a chance to grow. 

When Pakistan loses electricity, it does not only lose power. It loses valuable economic opportunities. 

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Pakistan

350,000 Google Career Certificates Open to Pakistanis

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350,000 Google Career Certificates Open to Pakistanis
This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

ISLAMABAD – Google has expanded its Career Certificates program in Pakistan, offering a total of 350,000 scholarships nationwide. The initiative provides young professionals, students, and workforce entrants with the opportunity to gain in-demand digital skills and improve employability in an AI-driven economy. 

The milestone follows the addition of 150,000 new scholarships this year, demonstrating Google’s commitment to upskilling Pakistan’s workforce through accessible, globally recognized training. 

350,000 Google Career Certificates Open to Pakistanis

This Image is Ai generated and used for Illustration purposes only.

Online Learning for High-Demand Skills 

The program allows learners across Pakistan to access practical online courses in high-demand areas such as: 

  • Artificial Intelligence  
  • Data Analytics  
  • Cybersecurity  
  • Project Management  
  • Digital Marketing  
  • E-Commerce  

These online courses reduce barriers related to geographic location, limited training opportunities, and the high cost of traditional education. 

 

From Certification to Career Development 

Since 2022, Google has steadily expanded its digital learning initiatives in Pakistan. The latest expansion transforms the program from a set of individual courses into a comprehensive workforce development effort. 

Participants are encouraged not only to complete the certificates but also to apply these skills in employment, freelancing, entrepreneurship, and community development, bridging the gap between learning and practical career opportunities. 

 

Partnerships Strengthen Nationwide Impact 

Google’s rollout in Pakistan is supported by several local partners, including: 

  • TechValley  
  • Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC)  
  • Higher Education Department (HED)  

Involvement of government bodies ensures that the initiative is nationally relevant and accessible to a wide audience. 

 

Public Sector Participation Encourages Digital Adoption 

The Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MoITT) has mandated that all ministry officials complete two Google Career Certificate courses, extending the skills drive into the public sector. This measure supports the integration of AI and digital tools in government operations, improving efficiency and digital literacy. 

 

Key Points: 

  • Google Career Certificates Pakistan program expands to 350,000 learners 
  • Training is offered in AI, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, Project Management, and E-Commerce.  
  • Online courses reduce barriers for learners across the country.  
  • Program emphasizes applying skills in employment, freelancing, entrepreneurship, and community development.  
  • Partners include TechValley, PHEC, HED, and government ministries.  
  • MoITT requires ministry officials to complete two courses, integrating digital skills in public sector work.  

What is the Google Career Certificates Pakistan program?

It is a digital skills initiative that offers online, globally recognized certificates in AI, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, Project Management, and E-Commerce. 

Who can apply for the certificates?

Students, young professionals, and workforce entrants across Pakistan can access these online courses. 

How many certificates are available in Pakistan?

The program has expanded to a total of 350,000 certificates nationwide. 

Do government officials participate in the program?

Yes, the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication requires all ministry officials to complete two courses to encourage digital adoption in the public sector. 

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