Data: The New Oil – Minister Iqbal Emphasizes Importance in Digital Revolution

The Digital Pakistan National Summit, held today in Islamabad, underscored the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to advancing digital transformation across the nation. The event, graced by Planning Minister Prof. Ahsan Iqbal as the Chief Guest, highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to foster a digitally empowered economy, society, and citizenry.

Addressing the audience, Minister Iqbal reflected on the transformative nature of the digital age, noting the shift from traditional methods to cutting-edge technologies such as 5G and artificial intelligence. He emphasized that the current era demands a forward-thinking approach to effectively leverage new technological advancements.

Minister Iqbal applauded GSMA for organizing the summit, which aims to outline a strategic roadmap for Pakistan’s digital evolution. The Planning Minister highlighted the initial steps taken, including the rollout of 3G and 4G licenses and the introduction of the first Digital Pakistan Policy, as well as the establishment of key national centers focused on emerging technologies.

Minister Iqbal discussed the establishment of several National Centers in 2016-17 and 2018, including those for Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Big Data and Cloud Computing, Automation and Robotics, and Applied Mathematics. He emphasized that these centers have played a pivotal role in nurturing startups and developing human resources, contributing to a robust digital ecosystem in Pakistan.

Minister Iqbal compared data to oil, noting its significance as the cornerstone of the digital revolution. He stressed the importance of building an information highway to support the rapid flow of data and enable digital progress.

He underscored that the Government’s digital transformation strategy is anchored in the 5Es National Economic Transformation Plan, particularly the “E-Pakistan” pillar, which focuses on transitioning Pakistan into a knowledge-based economy through digitalization.

Minister Iqbal cited World Bank statistics showing that a 10 percent increase in broadband penetration could enhance GDP growth by 1 to 2 percent in low and middle-income countries, and highlighted the World Economic Forum’s projection that digital transformation could generate up to $100 trillion in value by 2025. These projections underscore the potential of digitalization to drive economic prosperity.

Minister Iqbal highlighted Pakistan’s digital landscape, marked by over 20 data centers, 192 million mobile cellular subscribers, and a broadband penetration rate exceeding 60%. He noted the significant surge in 3G and 4G subscriptions, with a 105% increase over the past five years.

He also emphasized the importance of harnessing the potential of the youth and entrepreneurial spirit. Recent initiatives, including

the distribution of over one million laptops to students from lower-middle-class backgrounds, have empowered many to become IT entrepreneurs.

Minister Iqbal observed that this effort has significantly contributed to Pakistan’s ranking as the fourth-largest e-lancing country globally.

Furthermore, Minister Iqbal addressed the need for enhancing cybersecurity measures. He noted that as digitalization progresses, the evolving threat landscape necessitates a robust cybersecurity framework to protect citizens, businesses, and government institutions. He emphasized that a secure digital environment will bolster investor confidence and promote broader participation in the digital economy.

The summit was attended by Federal Ministers, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, all of whom are integral to driving Pakistan’s digital future.