Muzaffarabad, (Parliament Times) : As part of its commitment to youth empowerment and digital advancement, the **Special Communications Organization (SCO)** continues to expand its network of **Software Technology Parks (STPs) and Freelancing Hubs (FLHs)** across Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJ&K) under its **Vision 2025** initiative. Over the past **16 months**, SCO has successfully established **31 IT centers**, significantly boosting the region’s IT infrastructure and creating opportunities for young professionals.
A high-level delegation recently visited the **STP Muzaffarabad** to witness SCO’s transformative initiatives firsthand. The delegation included representatives from the **Prime Minister’s SDG Unit**, **Director General M&E**, **Section Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs from P&DD (GoAJ&K)**, the **Director of Land Use and Planning**, the **Director of ORIC at the University of AJ&K**, and the **Head of UNWFP AJ&K**, along with his team.
The visit, organized by the **SCO Muzaffarabad team led by Mr. Umar Satti**, featured a detailed briefing on SCO’s **training programs, operational models, collaboration opportunities, and sustainability plans**. The delegates also interacted with **IT companies, startups, and freelancers** operating from the STP, expressing admiration for the high standard of work and innovation displayed by local talent.
The participants lauded SCO’s efforts in fostering a **vibrant IT ecosystem** and agreed to explore further collaboration in upcoming **SDG Technical Working Group (TWG) meetings**. They emphasized the need for continued support to empower AJ&K’s youth through **enhanced digital infrastructure and skill development**.
SCO remains dedicated to its mission of **”youth empowerment through sustained IT support”** and looks forward to strengthening partnerships with government bodies, educational institutions, and international organizations to drive AJ&K’s digital future.
