Pakistan Unveils Rs. 2.52 Billion Gaming & Animation Centre of Excellence

Pakistan to Get Rs. 2.52 Billion Centre of Excellence in Gaming and Animation

Get ready, Pakistan! A monumental step has been taken to supercharge the country’s digital future with the official launch of the Centre of Excellence in Gaming and Animation (CEGA). This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by the Ignite National Technology Fund, is set to completely transform Pakistan’s presence in the global gaming and animation industry.

A Hub for Innovation and Talent

The CEGA project, valued at a substantial Rs. 2.52 billion, was officially awarded to M/s. HUM Networks after a rigorous, year-long competitive bidding and evaluation process. Operations formally began on August 1, 2025, and this cutting-edge facility will serve as a vital hub for over five years, dedicated to training, fostering innovation, and driving industry expansion.

At its core, CEGA aims to position Pakistan as a leading regional player in the multi-billion dollar global gaming and animation market. The center will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, modern co-working spaces, and specialized training programs designed to empower young professionals with highly sought-after skills. Ignite projects that this will not only open doors for career advancement but also generate significant economic value as Pakistan strives to capture a larger slice of this booming sector.

Why Pakistan is Ready for Gaming Greatness

Pakistan’s current landscape makes it ripe for this kind of investment. Last year, the country’s gaming industry already generated approximately $170 million in revenue, supported by over 8,000 active professionals. The nation boasts a robust ICT talent pool, churning out more than 30,000 graduates annually. Add to that 195 million mobile subscribers, 119 million 3G/4G users, and a predominantly young, English-speaking population, and you have a fertile ground for gaming and animation ventures to flourish. Ignite firmly believes these factors provide an excellent foundation for CEGA’s success.

The Road to Reality: A Transparent Process

Bringing CEGA to life involved a meticulous, multi-stage procurement process. Kicking off in May 2024, it included extensive technical and financial evaluations, grievance hearings, and thorough reviews by the Finance & Procurement Committee. After significant deliberation, the Board of Directors gave their approval for HUM Networks as the project partner in May 2025, leading to the contract signing on July 15, 2025. The entire operation will adhere strictly to Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules, ensuring full transparency and compliance.

Paving the Way for a Creative Future

Ignite officials are brimming with confidence that CEGA will do more than just enhance Pakistan’s creative and technical capabilities. It’s expected to spark a whole new wave of innovation across digital media. By seamlessly integrating technology, arts, and media, the center is geared towards developing solutions for both local and international markets, ultimately creating a sustainable and thriving ecosystem for Pakistan’s burgeoning gaming and animation industry. This is a game-changer for the nation’s digital aspirations.