[Lahore, Punjab – 12 June 2024] – The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), the Punjab School Education Department (PSED), and Tech Valley have joined hands to launch the Digital Safar program in Lahore, Punjab. This initiative, inaugurated by the Honorable Minister for School Education Department Punjab, aims to empower the province’s youth with essential digital skills.

“We are thrilled to partner with PITB and PSED to launch Digital Safar in Punjab so every student can be more aware about the digital realm and how to leverage it to develop their skills,” said Umar Farooq, CEO Tech Valley. 

With the increased internet penetration in Pakistan, there is a pressing need for digital literacy, especially among the younger generation. Digital Safar focuses on two main areas: online safety and coding. The program includes Google’s “Be Internet Awesome,” which educates students on cyberbullying, online security, and digital citizenship through interactive activities. Additionally, “Google CS First” introduces students to coding, enhancing their creativity, problem-solving, and computational thinking skills.

Honorable Minister for School Education Department Punjab, Mr. Rana Sikander Hayat appreciated the initiative and said, “This program supports the government’s goal of creating a digitally literate and empowered youth. By teaching online safety and basic coding, we will ensure that Digital Safar fosters responsible digital citizenship and prepares students for future careers in technology.”

The launch event featured addresses from key stakeholders, including the Secretary of the School Education Department and the Chairman of the Punjab IT Board. They emphasized the importance of digital skills and their commitment to the program. An orientation session to officially kick-off trainings were also held to equip teachers with the skills needed to deliver the Digital Safar curriculum effectively.

The Digital Safar program represents a significant step towards a digitally advanced Punjab, preparing students to become responsible digital citizens and future tech leaders.