PIDE launches policy hiring drive to support CPEC 2.0 goals

ISLAMABAD: For the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), Islamabad, has announced 13 project-based positions to strengthen policy research and coordination at the Centre of Excellence for CPEC.
As per the PIDE, the hiring is being carried out under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives. The move aims to bolster evidence-based policymaking as CPEC transitions from large-scale infrastructure development to industrial cooperation and broader socio-economic growth.
The announced posts include one Executive Director and five Heads of Policy covering trade, investment and industrial cooperation; science, technology and innovation; regional connectivity and integration; energy and climate resilience; and socio-economic development.
Other positions include a Manager for Advocacy and Outreach, an Executive Secretary, a Manager for Editing and Publications, two Research Associates, an IT Network and Systems Engineer, and an Assistant for Accounts and Finance.
The positions align with the priority areas of CPEC 2.0, including trade and industrial development, regional connectivity, energy transition, climate resilience, science and technology, and social sector planning. Strengthening institutional and analytical capacity is viewed as critical for improving coordination among federal and provincial governments, the private sector and international partners involved in CPEC-related projects. The initial appointment for all positions will be for a period of two years, extendable annually based on satisfactory performance. The positions were announced Sunday, January 11, 2026, with applications open for 15 days through the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics’ official website. The deadline to apply is Jan. 25, 2026. –Agencies