Call to turn digital skills into climate action

IT minister stresses the importance of youth-led digital solutions at climate summit

ISLAMABAD:

Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has said that technology has an important role to play in addressing the urgent challenges like climate change.

"Innovative digital solutions are essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for improving the overall economic resilience and driving growth across various sectors," she remarked while speaking at the "First National Youth Climate Summit" on Monday.

Shaza Fatima stressed that climate change was a big challenge and everyone would have to play the role for environmental protection.

"Climate action is the most powerful when it includes everyone. We cannot tackle climate change effectively without the unique perspective and energies of young people," she said.

The state minister for IT emphasised the need for launching a proper campaign on social media regarding climate change along with the elimination of elements causing pollution.

She mentioned that a prime example of Pakistan's commitment to supporting innovation was the recent call for startups from Ignite, an attached department of the Ministry of IT and Telecom, to present their innovative solutions in climate tech, green tech and agri-tech at COP29.

She called it a valuable opportunity for the startups to engage with world leaders, policymakers and investors, and position Pakistan in global discussions on climate action. Similarly, the National Incubation Centres, which are a flagship programme of Ignite and the Ministry of IT, play an important role in nurturing startups across multiple verticals. These verticals extend beyond climate-related fields to encompass health tech, fintech and sustainable practices amongst others.

Ultimately, this contributes to the development of a climate-resilient digital economy that aligns with global standards, as highlighted at COP28, she said.

The state minister said that the Ministry of IT and Telecom stood ready to support any efforts that could harness technology for meaningful environmental impact.