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Islamabad – PayPal and Stripe payment gateways are on the horizon for Pakistani tech industry and the ongoing inflating freelancing community of the country.

The incumbent caretaker federal minister for information technology and telecom, Dr. Umar Saif has expressed the likelihood of the world most popular payment gateways home coming. He said while talking to press – mutual deliberation and talks are under way with both Stripe and PayPal to launch service in Pakistan.

In has recent appearance in media, the IT & Telecom minister told the press that the interim government plan to convince Stripe and PayPal authorities to allow their services via a third party in Pakistan, similar to what they did in Egypt.

The Pakistan freelance community if growing day by day, offering IT services worldwide and bringing in millions of dollars to the country. The minister put it that he has requested the dire need of one seamless payment gateway for Pakistani IT exporters and freelancers.

He also expressed in his course with media that similar effort is also underway with Stripe – another popular payment processing platform to launch their service in Pakistan.

In meeting with State Bank Officials, the IT minister has discussed the proposal and his resolve of bringing Stripe, PayPal and Wise to Pakistan with State Bank Officials. In the meeting, few other things were also brought to the table such as dollar retention accounts and corporate debit cards for IT companies that will enable the IT firms to retain, transfer, withdraw and spend easily in Pakistan.

This effort of bringing these international gateways to Pakistan care really uplift the IT exports of Pakistan, and the online working and freelance community, allowing them to work worldwide and get paid easily.

Entertainment Buzz – Today at Wankhede Stadium, South Africa presented a tremendous show of power with batting against champion England team in ICC men cricket world cup 2023.

England team won the toss and decides to bowl. The decision seems to have favored the SA team. The South African team went on with game so controlled and managed putting up a huge target of 400 runs against former champion team.

The pitch seems to be favoring the batters with shorter boundaries and good weather conditions, the South African players, from top to the middle order played a tremendous cricket, providing the England team with target that SA team would be feeling comfortable to depend.

The run chase from English batters is currently underway but it seems to be trembling for them as the South African bowlers have already sent 4 of their key players back to the pavilion.

Application for SUSI Exchange Program 2024 are now open.

Islamabad, 14 Oct – The much-anticipated moment is here for undergraduate students in Pakistan aged 18 to 25, as the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad announced the Study of the United States Institute (SUSI) exchange program for 2024. This remarkable opportunity is tailored for student leaders and undergraduates with a passion for careers in public policy and administration.

What is SUSI?

SUSI, the Study of the United States Institute, is a game-changing initiative aimed at fostering leadership skills, enhancing cross-cultural understanding between Pakistani and American communities, and paving the way for long-term career growth and invaluable networking opportunities.

Who Can Apply to SUSI Exchange Program 2024?

Current students at any Higher Education Commission (HEC) recognized university in Pakistan, majoring in public policy or related fields, are eligible to apply for this prestigious program.

You may also like to know about another annually announced Global Ugrad Exchange Program in Pakistan.

Why Apply?

This intensive six-week program offers selected students a transformative journey to the United States. Here’s what you stand to gain:

1. Fully Funded Experience: The SUSI program is fully funded, covering your round-trip travel to the U.S. and back to Pakistan.
2. Monthly Stipend: You’ll receive a monthly stipend to make your experience even more comfortable.
3. Lodging and Boarding: Your accommodation and meals will be taken care of, allowing you to focus on the enriching experience.
4. Medical Costs Waiver: Worried about healthcare costs during your stay in the U.S.? SUSI has got you covered.

Life-Changing Opportunities

SUSI isn’t just another exchange program; it’s a life-altering journey that can redefine your future. By joining SUSI 2024, you’ll:

• Develop Leadership Skills: Hone your leadership capabilities, setting you on a path to become a future leader in public policy and administration.
• Build Cross-Cultural Connections: Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of American culture while representing Pakistan, fostering understanding between two diverse worlds.
• Supercharge Your Career: Gain valuable insights and knowledge that can open doors to exciting career opportunities in public policy and administration, both in Pakistan and abroad.
• Expand Your Network: Connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and professionals who can become your allies in shaping a successful career.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to embark on a life-changing adventure. Apply now and be a part of the SUSI 2024 journey. Your future begins here.

Last date of SUSI exchange program 2024

Application submission deadline for SUSI exchange program 2024 is November 5th, 2023

Click here to know who to apply.

Every year, the United States Education Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) announces the most prestigious global undergraduate student exchange program – also known as Global UGRAD Exchange Program Scholarship for Pakistani students to go on a semester study trip and study at various universities in America.

Global UGRAD – a highly competitive one semester exchange program, sponsored by International Research and Exchange Board (IREX) administrated by the Educational and Cultural Affair (ECA) of the U.S. State Department, enables undergraduate students in Pakistan to spend a semester at U.S universities, and return to Pakistan after successfuling accomplishing of the program.

Every year, over 100 students usually embark on the journey as cultural ambassadors, aiming to promote mutual understandings between Pakistani and the U.S. citizens. In addition, students get ample expouser to alot of activities, communication and leadership skills enhancment and community services activities.

The scholarship is very competitive. All shortlisted applicants are going through a rigorous selection process. In this definitive guide, we will walk you through the complete process of how to apply, and potentially get selected for the world’s best exchange program that will elevate your professional growth in the long run.

Global UGRAD Student Exchange Program Online Apply, Essentials Parts of the Application Submission

1. Global UGRAD Announcement Date

The USEFP usually announces the program in August with closing date in September, allowing a one month window for all aspiring applicants to apply. All applicants are hereby advised to keep checking the USEFP official website to get update about the opening and closing dates of apply every year.

The UGRAD 2024 intake is currently open. Clike here to apply now.

2. Online Application Submission

The program does not accept applications in hard, and thus required all aspiring applicants to submit applications forms online through their website.

To begin with filling the online application, you will need to create an account first by keying in your CNIC number, email and password to start the online application. Make sure you use an email that contain your name and avoid using non-professional emails.

The Global UGRAD online application form contains various pages that help the selection committee accumulate various information about the applicants, such as name, contacts, address, education status and the university an applicant is currently enrolled in.

3. Write Down a Compelling Personal Statement

Personal Statement is the only major part of your entire application filling process that can really make or break your way to go to the U.S. and experience the academia life for a semester without paying a dime from your pocket.

As the name suggests, personal statement is your personal narrative, your life story, your struggle and what have you achieved in life so far.

This is a chance to let yourself fully in to the process by letting the panel know more about you as a person. The more you prepare a well-articulated and eloquent statement of just 250 words, the better are the chances of getting shortlisted to the interview.

4. Submit Two Reference Letters

As part of the complete application process, all candidates are required to submit two reference letters. The letters could be from your head of the department or a lecturer whom you have worked with, either in a research or participated in a any coursework.

Reference letters allows the USEFP selection penal to know more about you as a person and professionally through your referees assessment, whom you have worked with in any capacity.

5. Upload Scanned Documents

Applicants are required to submit their academic credentials i.e. transcripts and other certificates online. Thus, uploading good quality scanned images is another essential part of the Global UGRAD exchange program in Pakistan.
Once all fields and pages of the Global UGRAD application are dully filled, click submit. Be mindful that once you have clicked the submit button, you cannot change anything afterwards.

6. Global UGRAD Screening Process

After due date, the screening process begins. Every application goes through a number of screening checks to ensure all required items and data is provided with in the application. Any major missing thing will lead to a straight disqualification from the 2nd round of application evaluation process.

All complete applications then go through another screening round where the committee checks everything – from educational documents to reference letters and personal statements. After a thorough evaluation, the committee then initiates the shortlisting and withdrawal process. All shortlisted candidates are then informed via their emails for interviews and phone calls.

7. Video Presentation Submission

Recently, the USEFP has included another element in the process of Global UGRAD exchange program. All shortlisted applicants are required to submit a brief presentation (1 minute max) that manly comprises introduction, motivation and how the program will have an impact on their personal and professional lives.

8. Prepare for the Interview Day

Final step of the process is to appear for the interview at USEFP office in Islamabad. The interview is pretty straight and easy. All you just need to reflect on what you have provided in the application form, share your future plans, what would you expect in the program, potential learning outcomes and how will you promote mutual understanding between people of Pakistan and America.

Since this is the final and the most crucial step, thus it is highly advised to come well prepared, better suited and have a confident posture.

9. Selection of Principle or Alternate Candidates

Once the interview round is over, candidates are selected either principle or alternate. Principle candidates are the ones who have successfully qualified for the program will leave for a host university in the US.

However, the alternate candidates are still contingent upon further deliberations, like funding availability of if any principle candidate willingly withdraws from the program.

Many alternate candidates are then converted to as principle candidates after the committee approves funds.

10. Pre-Departure Orientation

Successful applicants are then invited to attend 2 days pre-departure orientation in which the entire cohort is oriented to the life in USA, things to do and what to avoid as an exchange student.

The cohort usually then leave for the US in January every year where they are set to attend seven day long orientation in Washington DC.

Islamabad Buzz News Desk – The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) and the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) have jointly introduced the National Freelance Training Program (NFTP). This initiative is now open for applications for its upcoming phase, with the goal of providing online job opportunities to young individuals all across Pakistan. By enrolling in the National Freelance Training Program, aspiring freelancers can acquire the necessary skills to thrive in the digital marketplace and earn a decent income.

The program focuses on training participants in high-demand digital skills, equipping them with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in the freelancing industry. Remarkably, more than 11,000 students have already completed the training and have collectively earned over $2.25 million in foreign exchange.

To further encourage participation, the government is offering substantial fee discounts, ranging from 70% to 100%. To be eligible for admission, applicants must possess a valid National Identity Card (CNIC), be residents of their respective provinces, and have completed at least 14 years of education. The age range for admission is set between 18 and 40 years.

This program presents an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to enhance their digital skills and pursue freelance work. It not only supports personal growth but also contributes to the country’s economic development by empowering the youth and increasing foreign exchange earnings.

To make the training more accessible, the National Freelance Training Program has established 20 centers across Pakistan. These centers offer a three-month training program to unemployed youth in Technical Content Marketing, Advertising, and Creative Designing.

Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will receive training completion certificates. These certificates will be awarded based on formal performance evaluation and rating. Evaluation criteria include attendance, student performance, and completion of assigned tasks throughout the course. The training program has a duration of three months.

If you are interested in participating, you can apply online by registering on the National Freelance Training Program website. Simply click the link provided to begin your application process.

Islamabad (Buzz News Desk) – In a timely reminder of Pakistan’s democratic process, Google has highlighted the upcoming general elections in the country through a captivating doodle that went on up trending in Pakistan. The doodle prominently displays a ballot box adorned with the Pakistani flag, serving as a visual call to action for citizens to participate in the electoral process.

The general elections are scheduled to be held this year against the backdrop of ongoing political and economic tension. The previous general elections took place in 2018, resulting in the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party coming to power with the support of some allies. However, in April 2022, the PTI chief was ousted from the prime minister’s office through a no-confidence vote led by the joint opposition.

Since then, the Pakistan Democratic Movement-led (PDM) coalition government has been governing the country. The current term of the National Assembly is set to end on August 13 this year. According to the rules, general elections should be held within 60 days of the completion of the National Assembly’s term, but if the assembly is dissolved before the expiry date, the period could be extended to 90 days.

Earlier this year, the PTI chief dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies, calling for snap elections. However, the ruling coalition, the PDM, believes that elections should be held simultaneously in both the federal and provincial assemblies.

The current government has rejected the PTI chief’s call for snap elections, emphasizing the need to stabilize the economy, which it claims suffered setbacks due to poor policies of the previous government. The ruling coalition aims to focus on economic recovery and reforms before heading into the general elections.

The upcoming general elections hold significant importance for Pakistan as citizens look forward to exercising their right to vote and shaping the future of their country. The doodle shared by Google serves as a reminder for citizens to actively participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard.

Embrace the truth, if you are a foe or friend to the growing shift the world is witnessing – AI poses no threat to those who dare to play with it.

But let me share a little secret with you—the real devil lies not within the AI itself, but within the limits of our imagination. The more your imaginations can run wiled, the better it responds.

It would be fair enough to say that prompts are the fuels of all Ai generative tools and the better one get it right, the supper intelligent it gets.

Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change – Stephen Hawking

Now, imagine a future where you harness the power of AI, unleashing its full potential as your greatest ally. Picture a world where you effortlessly navigate the complexities of tomorrow, armed with cutting-edge technologies that enhance your every move.

With AI by your side, you become an unstoppable force, transcending the boundaries of what was once deemed possible. It’s a future where productivity soars to new heights, where intelligence becomes supercharged, and where every endeavor is met with newfound efficiency.

Its True What they Say.

AI will pose a threat to people who refuse to accept it.

Don’t be held back by fear or hesitation. Embrace the future, and let AI propel you forward. Discover the transformative capabilities it holds, empowering you to conquer challenges and achieve unimaginable feats.

In this age of exponential progress, seize the opportunity to shape your destiny. Embrace the Devil—the limitless potential of AI— and let it be your guiding light towards a future of unparalleled success. The power is in your hands. Dare to unleash it.

In a recent move that has sparked intense debate among economists, policymakers, and tech enthusiasts, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced a ban on cryptocurrencies in the country. This decision has raised concerns about the economic implications of stifling the crypto industry, as well as the potential isolation of Pakistan from the burgeoning web 3.0 and blockchain job market.

The ban on cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets, aims to curb money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit activities. However, critics argue that the ban may inadvertently lead to the rise of a black economy, as individuals seek alternative means to invest and trade in crypto.

Proponents of cryptocurrencies, such as prominent influencer and crypto advocate Waqar Zaka, have been vocal about their stance, urging the government to consider regulation rather than an outright ban. They argue that regulating the crypto industry would allow Pakistan to tap into the immense potential of blockchain technology and foster economic growth.

One of the key economic implications of the ban is the missed opportunity for Pakistan to participate in the global crypto market. With the rapid growth of the digital economy, cryptocurrencies have gained traction as a legitimate asset class, attracting substantial investments from individuals and institutions worldwide. By banning cryptocurrencies, Pakistan risks isolating itself from this global trend, potentially impeding economic progress and hindering job creation in the emerging web 3.0 landscape.

Furthermore, the ban may inadvertently contribute to the growth of a parallel black economy. As the demand for cryptocurrencies persists, individuals may resort to informal channels and underground markets to trade and invest in digital assets. This black economy could operate outside the purview of the government, further exacerbating the challenges associated with money laundering and illicit transactions.

Additionally, the ban on cryptocurrencies could have a detrimental impact on Pakistani web developers and data science professionals seeking opportunities in the blockchain industry. The emergence of web 3.0, with its decentralized applications and smart contracts, has created a demand for skilled professionals in areas such as blockchain development, decentralized finance, and data analysis. By banning cryptocurrencies, Pakistan risks missing out on the potential for job creation and skill development in these cutting-edge fields.

To address these concerns, experts argue that the government should explore regulatory frameworks to oversee the crypto industry effectively. Regulations could establish mechanisms to combat illicit activities while fostering innovation and responsible investment. By embracing cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, Pakistan could position itself as a regional leader in the web 3.0 landscape, attracting investments, fostering job growth, and reaping the benefits of an evolving digital economy.

The decision to ban or regulate cryptocurrencies is a complex one, requiring careful consideration of the economic implications and potential risks. While the ban may be an initial response to mitigate certain concerns, adopting a regulatory approach could offer a more balanced solution, ensuring both investor protection and economic growth.

As the debate rages on, Pakistan stands at a crossroads, faced with the choice of either embracing the potential of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology or isolating itself from the transformative web 3.0 landscape. The path it chooses will undoubtedly shape the country’s economic future and its position within the global digital economy.

A few months ago, the release of a Chatbot ChatGPT in November 2022 brought modification with its exceptional features to provide the user with accurate and efficient response using AI. However, it was a better version of artificial intelligence, but now with more advanced features, OpenAI has launched GhatGPT-4, which can generate more accurate results.

The new version is more powerful, generating up to 25,000 words for writing product descriptions, articles, blog, research papers, and social media captions, and it is more efficient than the previous one. Furthermore, according to a recent report by IT experts, ChatGPT-4 can also suggest guidelines using pictures you provide. It can answer you like a natural human as it works on the principles of natural linguistics processing. OpenAI also decided to charge a fixed amount for the subscription of ChatGPT-4.

Furthermore, users can also use its demo version; however, there is no guarantee of accurate answers. The GPT-4 produces solutions using the algorithm and available data in its database.

OpenAI further declared that, unlike ChatGPT, GPT-4 has more reasoning power to communicate accurately with users. OpenAI has signed contracts with different language learning apps to make it more user-friendly. However, the experts also informed us that it still may commit some error that is part of its algorithm, and ChatGPT-4 still needs to reach its advanced level.

On the day of the launching event, the expert revealed, when asked if ChatGPT will be able to replace humans in the future, that ChatGPT works based on an AI algorithm, so it generates answers using the available data. However, it can assist humans working in different organizations but cannot replace them.

The IT sector is growing rapidly with every coming day. However, the invention of GPT-4 has confirmed that we have to witness some incredible milestones in the future.