IT exports can be doubled in a year.

LAHORE -- Pakistan can easily double IT exports in a year or two by developing an efficient and integrated strategy with the support of private sector and through its proper and timely execution, said Umair Azam, CEO of Integration Xperts, one of Pakistan's prominent technology firms.

While appreciating the caretaker administration for its dedicated efforts to nurture the growth of IT sector, Azam said that the government had taken the right direction and the IT ministry was undertaking excellent steps.

In light of recent memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, he emphasised the need for a vigilant follow-up.

'MoUs are a good omen for the industry, however, it is very important to follow up on the agreements with Saudi Arabia and other countries,' he said while talking to The Express Tribune. To achieve IT export targets and harness the emerging regional opportunities, Azam called for collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector.

'The government needs to organise a series of road shows in potential markets in consultation and partnership with the private sector. This should be a continuous process to achieve due recognition for Pakistan and its IT sector.'

Discussing the challenge of supplying the requisite skilled workforce to meet national IT development goals and boost IT exports, he said, 'We produce almost 25,000 IT graduates every year, but unfortunately, due to the lack of required skills, just 10%...