KU–PAFLA Seminar: Skilled youth an asset for Pakistan

KARACHI: Pakistani youth and students equipped with advanced skills and qualifications are valuable national assets, as they hold immense potential to contribute to the global digital economy, bring foreign exchange into the country, and support their families.

This was stated by Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), at a seminar titled “The Freelance Revolution: From Degree to Digital PR Deals,” held recently at the University of Karachi under the Department of Mass Communication.

He highlighted that Pakistan is home to the third- or fourth-largest freelance community globally, with contributions reaching $856 million so far in the current financial year.

He emphasized that students should not only pursue academic degrees but also equip themselves with in-demand skills to become part of the rapidly growing global gig economy, which offers billion-dollar opportunities and a means to earn valuable foreign exchange for the country.

The session was chaired by Dr. Sadia Mehmood, Chairperson of the Department of Mass Communication. The speakers included Ibrahim Amin, Founder and Chairman of PAFLA; M. Hasan Bin Liaquat, Video Editor, Upwork Trainer, and Top-Rated Freelancer; Syeda Mahrukh Shah, Global YouTube Scriptwriter and Content Strategist; and Sagar Samy, Content Creator and AI Strategist.

Bringing together students, aspiring professionals, and industry experts, the seminar focused on how Pakistani youth can tap into rapidly expanding global digital markets.

Dr. Raana Afzal, Associate Professor at the Department of Mass Communication, also spoke on the occasion. She highlighted the growing importance of freelancing and digital public relations in today’s fast-evolving media landscape, warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, and encouraged students to make the most of the learning opportunity.

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Sadia Mehmood emphasized the importance of soft skills and confidence for continuous growth. “Along with expertise, confidence, mindset, and adaptability are essential for success in today’s competitive world,” she noted