By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY

TWA _____

Islamabad,: A new era in Pakistan's digital transformation has begun with the launch of the "Jhuggi Wala Community Network" in District Muzaffargarh, Punjab. The Universal Service Fund (USF), in collaboration with the globally recognized Internet Society (ISOC), Global Development Inclusion Partnership (GDIP), Nayatel, and DEMO, unveiled this landmark project aimed at bringing digital connectivity to underserved rural communities.

The announcement was made at a prestigious ceremony held at a local hotel in Islamabad, which was attended by leaders from the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MoITT) and key stakeholders in the telecom industry.

Chaudhry Mudassar Naveed, CEO of USF, addressed the gathering, reflecting on the remarkable achievements of USF and highlighting its role in connecting millions in rural and unserved areas. He noted that the USF has successfully launched 107 broadband services projects worth over PKR 95.27 billion, connecting 39.4 million residents to the digital world, with 94 of these projects already completed. Additionally, USF has laid 19,169 kilometers of optical fiber cable (OFC) at a cost of PKR 41.43 billion, reaching along 2,585 kilometers of motorways and national highways.

He credited the success of this initiative to the visionary leadership of Federal Minister IT & Telecom, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who directed USF to move beyond merely providing connectivity and focus on Digital Inclusion. “This partnership with the Internet Society is a crucial step towards empowering rural communities, particularly women, through digital literacy,” said Naveed.

Mr. Naveed Haq, Senior Director at the Internet Society (ISOC), also delivered a compelling address, emphasizing the significance of this project in driving rural development. He urged regulatory authorities, the private sector, and telecommunications stakeholders to collaborate in creating a digital ecosystem that can sustainably empower rural populations.

The event also featured a high-level Policy Dialogue with key figures such as Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar (Member Compliance, PTA), Ms. Saira Faisal (Country Lead, GSMA), Waqar Haider (Special Communication Organization - SCO), Sohail Manzoor (National Rural Support Programme - NRSP), Waqas Hassan (GDIP), and Aqeel Khurshid (CTO Nayatel). They underscored the need for focused efforts to bridge the digital divide and enhance connectivity in rural areas, stressing that digital inclusion is essential for the socio-economic upliftment of marginalized communities.

This pioneering initiative is seen as a significant step towards achieving Digital Equity in Pakistan, addressing the Usage Gap and promoting socio-economic development in the rural digital economy. The establishment of the "Jhuggi Wala Community Network" will empower the residents of Muzaffargarh with access to the digital world, fostering education, economic opportunities, and social inclusion.

A Leap Toward Empowerment and Digital Equality

The collaboration between USF, ISOC, GDIP, Nayatel, and DEMO marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s journey toward a digitally inclusive society. This initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to Digital Pakistan and will help millions of rural residents benefit from the transformative power of technology.