**Pakistan Moves Forward With First National Esports Policy to Empower Youth**
Pakistan has taken a significant step toward advancing its digital landscape by initiating its first National Esports Policy, aiming to unlock new opportunities for youth engagement, skill development, and innovation-led employment. The policy marks a milestone effort to provide structured support for the commercialization of locally developed games and elevate the country’s presence in the global esports arena.
The initiative is being driven by Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP), Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, who recently convened a high-level meeting to chart the future of esports in Pakistan. The meeting brought together key government officials, including Member of the National Assembly Amna Batool, Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Zarrar Hasham Khan, and PMYP Deputy Secretary Dr. Muhammad Ali Malik.
In a collaborative move that underscores international cooperation, the gathering also featured participation from leading global partners. Notable attendees included Thomas Dore, Vice President of the British Esports Federation, and Kalam Neale, the Federation’s Head of Education. The Commonwealth Secretariat was represented by Layne Robinson, Head of Social Policy, and Saima Majeed, Youth Officer, reflecting an ongoing commitment to drawing on best practices from around the world.
Discussions focused on leveraging esports as a vibrant platform to engage youth, foster the development of critical digital skills, and create innovative employment pathways. Emphasis was placed on supporting the commercialization of games designed and developed in Pakistan, aiming to boost local talent and drive economic growth in the digital entertainment sector.
With the launch of its National Esports Policy, Pakistan is signaling its intent to not only support its burgeoning community of gamers and developers but also to position itself as a player on the international esports stage. The policy is expected to create a framework for long-term investment in digital education and youth empowerment, laying the groundwork for a thriving esports ecosystem in the country.
