Zohaib Khan Receives Inaugural IT Icon Award in Karachi

KARACHI - In a significant recognition of his contributions to the local IT industry, Muhammad Zohaib Khan, the Chairman of P@SHA, has been awarded the inaugural "IT Icon" award by Ecommerce Gateway. This prestigious accolade was presented to him by Shaza Fatima, the State Minister for IT and Telecommunication, during the opening session of the 25th ITCN Asia. This event marks a milestone not only for Khan but also for the entire IT sector in Pakistan.

Zohaib Khan has dedicated over 15 years to the IT association, taking on various roles including chairman, vice chairman, and member of the central executive committee. His leadership has been instrumental in achieving remarkable milestones for the industry. Under his guidance, Pakistan reached its highest-ever export earnings of over $3.2 billion in the fiscal year 2024. Furthermore, the country proudly hosted the APICTA Awards for regional economies for the first time in 2023, showcasing its growing influence in the tech landscape.

During his tenure, Khan has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have propelled the IT sector forward. These include securing IT export awards, advocating for tax incentives at both federal and provincial levels, and ensuring the retention of 50% of foreign exchange facilities in bank accounts. Additionally, he played a crucial role in establishing "Tech Destination Pakistan" in collaboration with policymakers and a private bank, which aims to enhance the country's appeal as a tech hub.

Moreover, Khan has revitalized the secretariat of P@SHA and its research and development unit, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront of innovation. His efforts have also led various Pakistani IT companies to expand their operations internationally, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and European markets.

In his ongoing commitment to the industry, Khan is actively involved in the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), which has set an ambitious target of increasing IT exports to a record $10 billion in the coming years. This goal reflects the potential of Pakistan's IT sector and the importance of strategic leadership in achieving it.

State Minister Shaza Fatima emphasized the critical role of stakeholders in driving the country's economic prosperity. She acknowledged that under Khan's leadership, P@SHA has reached exceptional historical milestones, and she expressed hope for continued collaboration between the government and P@SHA. Project Director of ITCN, Umair Nizam, highlighted that the launch of the IT Icon Awards aims to honor individuals who have dedicated themselves to the IT and tech industry, encouraging more leaders to emerge and contribute to the sector.

The recognition of Muhammad Zohaib Khan as the first recipient of the "IT Icon" award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of the IT community in Pakistan. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential for leaders like Khan to inspire the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. The future of Pakistan's IT sector looks promising, and with continued dedication and collaboration, it can achieve even greater heights.