The federal government has initiated a comprehensive plan to transform Islamabad into a pilot smart city, with Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja leading the efforts as directed by the Prime Minister. Following a Senate Standing Committee meeting on Information Technology, the ministry announced funding to provide fiber connectivity to all public schools, Basic Health Units (BHUs), hospitals, police stations, and other health facilities in Islamabad. Full fiberization of these institutions is expected within six to eight months, alongside free public Wi-Fi at identified public areas and metro bus stations through public-private partnerships.
The initiative also aims to expand educational access via EdTech solutions, integrating emerging technologies and artificial intelligence into curricula from kindergarten through grade six to ensure early digital literacy and equal learning opportunities.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the government is advancing the “One Patient, One ID” system to enhance healthcare delivery by enabling telemedicine and remote consultations at all BHUs.
Educational reforms include plans to incorporate IT education into the national curriculum, supported by a committee established for this purpose.
The government has set an ambitious target to train 500,000 youth in advanced IT skills through partnerships with global tech giants: 200,000 with Google, 300,000 with Huawei, and 200,000 with Microsoft. These programs aim to elevate Pakistan’s IT workforce to global standards and boost youth participation in the digital economy.
