Amir Saeed

Special Communications Organisation (SCO), a pioneer in telecom and IT services in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), has established dedicated freelancing labs in Gilgit, Skardu, and Muzaffarabad to ensure inclusive digital transformation under its broader Vision 2025 framework.

Talking to WealthPK, Raja Noorul Amin, an SCO official, said these freelancing hubs have been equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed for persons with disabilities. He said the initiative fosters economic inclusion and skill enhancement in remote regions by integrating innovative technology and specialised resources.

He said that each centre provides laptops, physiotherapy machines, and assistive devices, alongside vans for mobility support. “Furthermore, to foster diverse vocational skills, equipment for tailoring and embroidery has been supplied, enabling beneficiaries to engage in both IT and handicraft sectors,” he said.

“From deploying hundreds of BTS towers offering 3G/4G services to laying thousands of kilometres of optical fibre cable, the organisation’s infrastructure development supports reliable internet access, a prerequisite for online freelancing and remote work opportunities, thus ensuring digital empowerment in some of the most challenging terrains of GB and AJK,’’ Amin said.

“The freelancing labs for persons with disabilities are part of digital initiatives, including software technology parks and numerous freelancing hubs, aimed at youth empowerment,” he added.

“These hubs provide not just internet connectivity but also training and access to the global digital economy, fostering financial independence in areas where traditional employment is scarce.”

“This effort stands out in the regional context, as it creates a nurturing environment for marginalised groups to participate actively in the IT sector. This integration of assistive technology with digital skill development is helping promote social inclusion,” he said.

He said that SCO planned to expand freelancing hubs to a total of 50 by the end of 2025 to empower individuals and strengthen the socioeconomic fabric of GB and AJK.

Credit: INP-WealthPk