Islamabad, Apr 24, 2025: In a powerful stride towards inclusive digital transformation, the Universal Service Fund (USF) organized a high-profile event on Girls in ICT Day titled “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation.” The event was graced by Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who delivered a keynote address as the chief guest.
Speaking at the event, Shaza Fatima emphasized that USF is playing a pivotal role in empowering women and advancing Pakistan’s IT industry.
She revealed that 161 major projects have been launched, 4,400 mobile towers installed, and 17,200 km of optical fiber laid—providing digital access to 37 million people across the country.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, she shared that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has allocated Rs. 23 billion to USF for 2024.
“USF is helping connect women, startups, freelancers, and social media influencers to the digital world,” she added.
Minister Shaza also noted the rise of women-led tech ventures making a mark globally.
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She reiterated the government’s resolve to deliver smartphones and internet access to every home under the Smartphones for All Policy, currently in its final stages.
The DigiSkills program has already trained 4.5 million individuals in freelancing, with women being a significant part of this digital shift. “The Ministry of IT fully supports women at every level and is striving to create an equal and inclusive environment,” said Shaza Fatima.
She also addressed social barriers, noting:
“When women speak out about societal or workplace challenges, they’re often silenced. Those using religion to hold women back must rethink their approach. Our women are not lacking—the country lags behind because half the population is deprived of opportunities.”
USF’s CEO stated that following directives from the Federal Minister and Board of Directors, field and technical work for new projects has been completed.
USF has issued tenders for 16 new projects across 20 districts in all four provinces, according to Chaudhry Mudassir Naveed.
The event also featured participation from senior officials of the Ministry of IT & Telecom and USF, Parliamentary Secretary Sabeen Ghauri, Member of National Assembly Sharmila Faruqi, leading female entrepreneurs, educational experts, and representatives from Jazz, and the IT & Telecom industry.
