Caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Dr Umar said that the Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar-led govt accomplished 13 out of 15 designated objectives within just five months.
The minister unveiled a series of policy interventions aimed at fostering IT exports, including allowing companies to retain 50% of their export revenue in dollars, resulting in a notable 32% surge in IT exports within a mere 60 days.
The establishment of a Telecom Tribunal marks a significant milestone, fulfilling a longstanding demand of the telecom sector. This specialized body is poised to expedite dispute resolution and facilitate rapid progress in the telecom industry by handling sector-specific legal matters.
Facilitating industry alignment in education
He outlined initiatives to revamp IT education in collaboration with key stakeholders, emphasizing industry-specific training to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry needs.
Noteworthy efforts include standardized quality tests for IT graduates and the allocation of funds for industry-relevant courses in universities.
Empowering freelancers and startups
Addressing long-standing demands, the government has facilitated freelancers by enabling payments through PayPal via a third-party arrangement.
Additionally, the inauguration of 10,000 e-Rozgar centers equipped with state-of-the-art facilities aims to empower freelancers and startups, potentially boosting IT exports by $10 billion annually.
Stimulating venture capital investment
The government has allocated Rs2 billion for the Pakistan Startup Fund, aiming to accelerate venture capital investment in the country.
Furthermore, initiatives such as a 3% Research and Development (R&D) incentive for the local handset manufacturing industry and plans to manufacture components domestically signify a strategic push towards fostering local manufacturing and export.
Vision for Pakistan as a Technology Destination
Dr. Umar Saif reaffirmed the government's commitment to positioning Pakistan as a "Technology Destination" on the global stage, leveraging all available forums to showcase the country's digital prowess and attract international investment.
Launch of 5G services
Looking ahead, Dr. Saif expressed confidence in the upcoming launch of 5G services by July-August, coupled with plans to enhance the optic fiber network and offer 300MHz spectrum for auction.
These endeavors are poised to usher in a new era of connectivity and innovation, propelling Pakistan towards digital excellence.
