Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima, fervently asserted that there has been neither an internet suspension nor a reduction in internet speed across the country.
She clarified that any perceived slowdown in internet speed is likely due to the increased usage of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
While addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Fatima illuminated the government’s proactive initiatives aimed at fostering IT sector development. She mentioned that investments in this sector are flourishing under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
In spite of economic hurdles, the required resources for the IT sector have been secured with a generous budget allocation of Rs 60 billion. Moreover, she proudly noted that over 4 billion rupees have been allocated specifically for IT training programs designed for children.
The Ministry is collaborating with Meta, Google and Microsoft to provide training to the youth, and more than 4.5 million children have been enrolled in digital skills programs.
Pakistan has also participated in Meta’s global Artificial Intelligence (AI) competition for the first time.
Fatima announced two IT parks, one in Islamabad and one in Karachi being established which are expected to create over 10,000 job opportunities.
She reiterated that the government was working to ensure that the public did not face internet issues and emphasised that the slowdown was a result of increased VPN usage.
She highlighted that Pakistan has achieved its highest-ever IT exports in the country’s history. She emphasised that IT was a priority for the Prime Minister, who has focused on digitisation since taking office.
Fatima revealed that the Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy will be unveiled soon, and work was underway on a semiconductor policy.
The auction for the 5G spectrum was expected to occur shortly, and four new cables were being introduced to improve internet quality.
Once these cables were in place, the internet service in Pakistan was anticipated to reach a standard level, she stressed.