Pakistan Launches Rs. 2.52 Billion Centre of Excellence in Gaming & Animation to Boost Creative Industry
Pakistan has officially begun work on its first-ever Centre of Excellence in Gaming and Animation (CEGA), a groundbreaking project by the Ignite National Technology Fund aimed at revolutionizing the country’s digital creative sector.
The Rs. 2.52 billion project, awarded to HUM Networks after a rigorous year-long bidding and evaluation process, officially kicked off on August 1, 2025. Over the next five years and three months, CEGA will serve as a hub for cutting-edge training, innovation, and industry development in gaming and animation.
A Step Toward Making Pakistan a Regional Creative Powerhouse
The initiative is strategically designed to position Pakistan as a leading player in the multi-billion-dollar global gaming and animation industry. CEGA will feature:
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State-of-the-art equipment for advanced production
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Co-working spaces to encourage collaboration
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Specialized training programs to equip young professionals with in-demand skills
Ignite anticipates that the center will not only provide career growth opportunities but also generate significant economic value, enabling Pakistan to secure a stronger foothold in the rapidly expanding global digital entertainment market.
Why Pakistan is Ready for CEGA’s Success
The country’s gaming industry generated $170 million in revenue last year, with more than 8,000 active professionals in the field. Backed by a robust ICT talent pool producing over 30,000 graduates annually, a massive 195 million mobile subscriber base, and 119 million 3G/4G users, Pakistan offers an ideal environment for growth in gaming and animation. Its young, English-speaking population further strengthens its position as a competitive market.
From Idea to Reality – The Journey of CEGA
The procurement process began in May 2024 and included multiple phases: technical and financial assessments, grievance hearings, and reviews by the Finance & Procurement Committee. The Board of Directors approved HUM Networks as the official project partner in May 2025, with the contract signed on July 15, 2025.
In compliance with Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules, the project ensures transparency and proper governance at every stage.
Driving Digital Media Innovation
Officials at Ignite are confident that CEGA will elevate Pakistan’s creative and technical expertise while sparking a new wave of digital media innovation. By merging technology, arts, and media, the center will develop solutions that cater to both local and global markets, creating a sustainable ecosystem for the gaming and animation industry in Pakistan.
