Ignite National Technology Fund and HUM Network Limited have signed an agreement to establish the Center of Excellence in Gaming and Animation (CEGA) in Islamabad, a national initiative designed to accelerate Pakistan’s gaming and animation industries by incubating startups, training talent, and providing shared workspace and resources to help local creators compete globally.
CEGA will focus on turning creative ideas into viable ventures through incubation, skills development and collaboration. Over five years the center plans to incubate 200 startups, provide training in gaming, animation and interactive content to 10,000 people through specialized courses and workshops, and operate a co-working space that will include 100 free seats for creators and entrepreneurs. The program will offer founders mentorship, funding support and access to market exposure.
The signing took place at the Ministry of IT & Telecom and was attended by Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja, officials from the ministry, Ignite leadership, HUM Network representatives and other dignitaries. The partnership pairs Ignite’s mandate to spur technology and entrepreneurship with HUM Network’s media and content expertise.
Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the center aligns with government goals to build a digital nation and strengthen Pakistan’s technology and creative industries. “This initiative will equip our youth with world-class skills, strengthen the gaming and animation ecosystem, and contribute to the country’s digital economy,” she said, adding that the partnership aims to create world-class opportunities for young talent.
Duraid Qureshi, CEO of HUM Network Limited, emphasized the human element of the initiative, saying the network will contribute media, storytelling and content-creation expertise to help nurture a new generation of creative professionals. “This isn’t just about technology; it’s about people and their dreams. We’re building a home for every brilliant idea and every ambitious mind in Pakistan,” he said.
Rafique A. Buriro, CEO of Ignite, said CEGA will supply the infrastructure and skills needed for Pakistani youth to succeed internationally and supports the broader government vision for a stronger digital and creative economy.
CEGA complements Ignite’s existing programs, including National Incubation Centers, research and development projects, and specialized initiatives in emerging technologies. Startups incubated at CEGA will gain access to advanced tools, professional guidance and pathways to international markets, while students and trainees are expected to graduate with skills and mindsets suited to a competitive global industry.
Organizers say CEGA is intended to position Pakistan as a regional hub for game development and animation, and to become a landmark initiative in the country’s drive toward a more vibrant digital economy.
