In rural areas of Punjab, many women face significant obstacles to financial independence due to limited access to education, infrastructure, and earning opportunities. Recognizing these challenges, the Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) has launched the “Empowering Rural Women Through IT Training” initiative—a free digital skills training program designed to equip rural women with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy. (Rozgar Program)
What Does the Program Offer?
• Comprehensive Digital Training: The six-month online training covers English language, content creation, digital marketing, e-commerce (Shopify, Daraz), freelancing (Upwork, Fiverr), financial literacy, and soft skills. (Rozgar Program)
• Essential Resources Provided: Participants receive a desktop computer (worth around PKR 150,000) and six months of free internet to stay connected and learn. (Rozgar Program)
• Monthly Stipend Support: A stipend of up to PKR 5,000 per month is provided to sustain motivation and participation during the training period. (Rozgar Program)
• Mentorship & Support: Instructor-led sessions, practical assessments, and personalized mentorship help women build real-world skills and confidence. (Rozgar Program)
• Certification & Market Access: Participants who complete the training and pass evaluations receive a career-boosting certificate. Graduates are also guided to marketplace opportunities or freelancing platforms. (Rozgar Program)
Who Can Apply?
• Location: Women residing in rural Punjab are eligible.
• Age: Primarily 18–35 years (90% of seats reserved for this group), with a small share (10%) available for those older.
• Education: Minimum 16 years of formal education.
• Selection Process: Includes an online aptitude test, merit list, online classes, evaluations, and mentorship support. (Educativz)
Why This Program Matters
Digital Inclusion & Financial Independence
The program bridges the digital literacy gap in rural communities and empowers women to earn from home—whether as freelancers, small entrepreneurs, or online business owners. (latest Govt scheme in Pakistan 2025, Educativz)
Flexible Learning & Career Support
Through structured online instruction and mentorship, women receive not only skills but also the support needed to confidently enter digital markets—a game-changer for rural job seekers. (Punjab Information Technology Board)
Proven Impact
PSDF has demonstrated success through various related initiatives—such as the Uraan program, which includes Amazon Virtual Assistant training and home chef entrepreneurship via Foodpanda—enabling rural women to generate sustainable monthly incomes of up to PKR 60,000.
Summary
The PSDF Empowering Rural Women Through IT Training program is a transformative opportunity for educated rural women in Punjab to gain digital skills, earn a certification, receive government support, and access income-generating avenues—completely free of cost. As digital inclusion expands, initiatives like these are vital stepping stones toward economic independence and community development.
How to Apply
• Visit the PSDF website under the Empowering Rural Women program section. (PSD Foundation)
• Register by filling out personal and educational information online.
• Upload required documents (CNIC, educational certificates).
• Await a call or approval based on merit-based selection. (Rozgar Program
