PESHAWAR: The United States, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), announced a groundbreaking partnership with Mindstorm Studio – a notable Pakistani game developer – aimed at providing opportunities for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa youth to flourish in the digital gaming industry.

A statement issued here said this collaboration was a substantial step towards fostering innovation, skill development, and economic empowerment among the region’s youth.

It said the partnership between USAID and Mindstorm Studio sought to harness the creative potential of KP’s youth by introducing relevant curricula in universities and promoting game development as a viable career path.

“Through initiatives such as the Game Jam competition and capacity-building workshops, USAID and Mindstorm Studio will nurture a robust gaming ecosystem that will contribute to the growth of KP’s digital economy,” the statement said.

“Once considered a niche hobby, gaming has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences,” said USAID Mission Director V Kate Somvongsiri.

The Mindstorm partnership is part of a five-year, $24.7 million USAID initiative with the KP government and the private sector to expand economic opportunities in the province, including in the merged districts.

Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2024