Planning Commission has approved Rs. 321 million for establishing CAD/CAM (computer-aided designing and computer-aided manufacturing) centres in Lahore , Karachi , Peshawar , Quetta and Sialkot . Objective: to promote digital manufacturing in Pakistan .

They will be run by Tech-nology Upgradation and Skill Development Company. Funds from Public Sector Develop-ment Program for the centres would be released soon.

CAD/CAM techniques are now a worldwide phenomenon. They enhance productivity, thus increasing competitiveness both in domestic and international markets. Over the last few years awareness about these technologies has also grown considerably in Pakistan .

Some industrial sectors - automobiles, home appliances, engineering products, textiles and construction - have started shifting from traditional practices to modern ways. Howe-ver, lack of skilled manpower is a major challenge faced by the local industry.

It was to bridge this gap that TUSDEC took the initiative to establish these centres, which will be linked with NIDA (National Institute of Design and Analysis) as a hub.

The centres will provide basic as well as advanced training. Some 14,000 students (industrial staff, engineers and technologists) will be trained in three years at all the centres.

According to TUSDEC sources, the centres will be equipped with the latest computer systems and software used globally.