The digital revolution is reshaping societies worldwide, and Pakistan is poised to emerge as a frontrunner in this transformative journey. Minister Ahsan Iqbal underscored the pivotal role of digitalization in shaping Pakistan's future, emphasizing the proactive engagement of the country's youth in driving digital innovation. Notably, Pakistan stands as the fourth-largest contributor to the global digital freelancing industry, a testament to its burgeoning digital workforce. Minister Ahsan Iqbal commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its National Human Development Report 2023/2024, stressing the government's commitment to leveraging its insights for national development. As Chairman of the Report Advisory Council, he highlighted the significant impact of the report's findings on government initiatives, including the ongoing upliftment efforts in 20 of Pakistan's most impoverished districts, guided by the multidimensional poverty index introduced in the inaugural UNDP report of 2018. Additionally, he emphasized the value of the Youth Development Index in understanding and addressing the aspirations and concerns of Pakistani youth. Recognizing digital access as a fundamental necessity in the modern era, akin to essential services like electricity, healthcare, and education, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the government's responsibility to bridge the digital divide across all regions. He underscored the transformative potential of this year's UNDP report, which sheds light on critical aspects of development, including digital inclusion. To bolster Pakistan's readiness for the digital age, the government has established National Centers of Excellence in key universities nationwide, fostering innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, big data, and cloud computing. Reflecting on past milestones, Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted key initiatives that have propelled Pakistan's digital development journey. These include the deregulation of the telecommunications industry in 1993, paving the way for a telecommunications revolution, and the introduction of 3G/4G licenses in 2013. Furthermore, he underscored the significance of Pakistan's first digital policy in 2021 as a landmark in the nation's digital transformation. Addressing the imperative of adapting to change, Minister Ahsan Iqbal outlined proactive strategies for embracing digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of anticipating and embracing change rather than succumbing to it. Highlighting the widening gap between socioeconomic segments in the digital era, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the urgency of addressing this disparity. He underscored the need for inclusive growth strategies to ensure that all segments of society benefit from the digital revolution. Looking ahead, Minister Ahsan Iqbal urged a forward-looking approach, setting sights on Pakistan's future growth trajectory. He emphasized the need for sustained growth rates of 7% to 9% to propel Pakistan towards becoming a $2 trillion or $3 trillion economy by 2047, respectively. Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, presided over the launch ceremony of the report titled "Doing Digital for Development," alongside esteemed guests including UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Ms. Kanni Wignaraja. The event witnessed the participation of diplomats, policymakers, civil society representatives, students, and other stakeholders.
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