Over 12,400 youth apply for Punjab’s global IT certification programme

The Punjab government’s flagship Global IT certifications programme, launched in September 2024 to equip youth with internationally recognised digital skills, has drawn more than 12,420 applications to date.

According to the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), verification of eligibility has already been completed for 6,761 candidates through its online portal. Payment verification has been cleared for 326 applicants, while fee reimbursements are in progress for 227 international certifications. So far, 156 successful candidates have received full course fee refunds directly into their bank accounts.

The update came during a review meeting chaired by PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf on Monday. Also in attendance were PITB DG e-Governance Sajid Latif, Skills Development Wing Director Chaudhary Ahmad Islam, and other senior officials.

Highlighting the broader vision of the initiative, Chairman Yousaf said the programme enables candidates to earn certifications from leading global technology firms, with the Punjab government reimbursing course fees for all those who successfully complete their chosen certification.