Islamabad, Aug 28: Karachi: The Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, graced the Inaugural Dinner of ITCN Asia 2024 today as the Chief Guest.
In her address, she expressed her gratitude to the distinguished assembly of industry leaders and innovators. “As the IT Minister of Pakistan, it is a profound honor and a privilege for me to stand before this distinguished assembly,” Ms. Shaza remarked.
Welcoming the international delegates, she highlighted the significance of ITCN as Pakistan’s premier tech festival, where the global tech fraternity converges. “As we gather here today, we are not merely celebrating our mutual enthusiasm for technology but also acknowledging the immense potential it holds to transform society and shape our shared future,” she stated.
Ms. Shaza highlighted Pakistan’s digital progress, particularly noting the network of eight submarine fiber optic cables that connect the country to global hubs. She announced the government’s plans to launch four new fiber optic submarines to further enhance connectivity with diverse regions.
“Our IT vision is to establish an accelerated digitization ecosystem that fosters socio-economic development, expands the knowledge-based economy, and drives economic growth,” she said, emphasizing the critical role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the country’s socio-economic advancement. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the IT industry through policy development and support.
Ms. Shaza noted that major growth has been observed in IT exports, showcasing the local companies’ ability to deliver IT solutions that meet international standards.
In terms of facilitation, Ms. Shaza highlighted the Ministry’s support for small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs at ITCN through the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and ignite. “By removing barriers and implementing growth-oriented policies, we are nurturing the expansion of IT companies,” she said.
She termed Digital Pakistan Policy as a blueprint for digital transformation across both the government and private sectors. This policy, she noted, ensures that Pakistan remains at the forefront of technological advancement.
Ms. Shaza also spoke about the Pakistan Startup Fund, which provides financial and resource support to entrepreneurs, fostering an ecosystem of innovation. She mentioned the government’s focus on developing tech infrastructure through the establishment of Software Technology Parks and Special Technology Zones, with flagship projects like the IT Parks in Karachi and Islamabad set to be operational next year.
Leveraging Pakistan’s pool of approximately 1 million freelancers, Ms. Shaza emphasized the country’s strong position in the gig economy, with a goal to reach $10 billion in the coming years. She also stressed the importance of equipping the youth with competitive skills, highlighting initiatives to train and certify over 30,000 graduates through partnerships with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and industry stakeholders.
Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Shaza acknowledged the efforts of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Ignite, and P@sha in promoting the IT ecosystem. She also recognized the official sponsors, organizers, exhibitors, and participants of ITCN Asia 2024.
The 25th edition of ITCN Asia, Pakistan’s leading IT and telecom expo, officially began at the Expo Center in Karachi. Scheduled from August 27-29, the three-day event brings together global and local tech giants, investors, and entrepreneurs to position Pakistan as an emerging tech hub. The exhibition is expected to attract investments exceeding $500 million, with 750 leading global and local companies participating.
