Shaza Fatima presents 'Digital Nation Pakistan' legislation in NA

Minister of State for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja has unveiled a significant step towards Pakistan’s digital future, announcing the introduction of legislation for the 'Digital Nation Pakistan' initiative in the National Assembly on Monday.

Speaking at an event in Islamabad, she said, "We are hoping that within the next few days, it will be passed as a law, with the National Digital Commission coming into form," she stated.

The initiative aims to create a unified national framework for digitisation, focusing on three key areas: economy, governance, and society. The commission, which will oversee the plan, will be chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and will include all Chief Ministers of Pakistan's provinces, she added.

It will also comprise heads of major regulatory bodies, such as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), NADRA, and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), among others.

"We are hoping that with the creation of a unified digital identity for every citizen of Pakistan, we will be well on a pathway towards unlocking the true potential that this country holds," Fatima said.

Additionally, the commission will pave the way for the formation of the Pakistan Digital Authority, tasked with ensuring a comprehensive blueprint for the country’s national digitisation.

Fatima expressed optimism about the country’s technology sector, expecting a surge in investment in digital infrastructure in the coming years. "In the coming years, we anticipate a significant increase in investment in technology infrastructure," she added.