Labourers busy in unloading and arranging the mango (boxes) from vehicles at fruit and vegetable market in the Provincial Capital
Zong 4G celebrates 15 years of pioneering excellence in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP):Zong 4G, Pakistan’s leading telecom giant, marks a momentous milestone as it celebrates 15 years of unwavering excellence in the country’s digital landscape.
Guided by the motto “Let’s Get Digital,” Zong 4G has revolutionized the nation’s connectivity through its widest 4G network and cutting-edge technology, leaving an indelible mark on Pakistan’s technological future.
For over a decade and a half, Zong 4G has been at the forefront of technological advancement, pioneering the introduction of 3G and 4G networks and successfully testing 5G. The company’s commitment to technological progress has transformed the way Pakistan connects and communicates, propelling the nation’s digital revolution said a news release.
Investing significantly in expanding its network infrastructure, Zong 4G has erected over 14,000 towers nationwide, extending its services to even the remotest corners of the country. With a massive investment of over USD 3 billion, millions of Pakistanis now have access to affordable and best-in-class telecommunications services, bridging the digital divide and empowering individuals, businesses, and communities alike.
Beyond commercial success, Zong 4G actively contributes to society’s betterment, positively impacting the lives of 6.6 million Pakistanis. By focusing on education, health, disaster relief, and environmental sustainability, the company leverages its resources and expertise to create a more inclusive and sustainable future.
As it embarks on the next 15 years, Zong 4G envisions the rise of “Gen Zong,” an era where the collective power of multiple generations fuels a digital revolution, propelling Pakistan into a realm of limitless possibilities. With unwavering commitment, Zong 4G acts as the catalyst for change, forging an enabled Pakistan where connectivity knows no bounds and the aspirations of its people soar to unprecedented heights.
Looking to the future, Zong 4G stands poised to shape Pakistan’s economy and society, defining a brighter path for upcoming generations. With its dedication to digital progress and prosperity, Zong 4G epitomizes the essence of transformative change, securing a prosperous and technologically advanced Pakistan for years to come.
Minister Rehman hosts Italian delegation to boost Climate Resilience in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP): Federal Minister for Climate Change & Environmental Coordination, Senator Sherry Rehman, recently welcomed a delegation from Italy to the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination.
The delegation included representatives from the University of Milan and the Italian Association Ev-K2-CNR, with Ambassador Andreas Ferrarese leading the group. Additionally, officials from the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and UNDP were also present during the meeting, a news release said.
Minister Rehman expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support of the Italian government in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan. She acknowledged the remarkable 35-year presence of EvK2CNR in the Pakistani mountains.
The Minister specifically commended the ‘Glaciers & Students’ project, which is funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AIC), implemented by UNDP Pakistan, and executed by EvK2CNR.
This initiative aims to accomplish several key objectives, including the establishment of 8 Automatic Weather Systems (AWS), the creation of an inventory of Pakistan’s 7,200 glaciers, and the provision of capacity-building and training opportunities for students at Karakoram International University and the University of Baltistan, as well as for staff at the Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency.
In her opening remarks, Minister Rehman emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Pakistan boasts the largest number of glaciers outside the polar regions, and these invaluable resources are facing significant threats due to climate change. It is imperative that our universities collaborate closely to cultivate a comprehensive understanding among our students regarding climate resilience and management.
This project holds immense significance as it will enable us to effectively map and monitor the changes caused by climate stress on our glaciers. Moreover, we eagerly anticipate exploring potential solutions to mitigate the alarming rise in glacial melt, which has resulted in a staggering 300% increase in Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) events in Pakistan over the past year.
Ambassador Ferrarese expressed his gratitude for the enduring friendship and exceptional cooperation between the two nations. He underscored the fact that Italy, too, is profoundly affected by the devastating consequences of climate change. The Ambassador conveyed his heartfelt sympathies regarding the tragic events that unfolded in Pakistan last year, particularly the catastrophic floods that affected a staggering 33 million individuals.
He further emphasized the significance of the ‘Glaciers & Students’ project, as it will facilitate comprehensive glacier mapping, and provide an understanding of the glaciers in its entirety to effectively safeguard these invaluable resources.
The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan officials provided a comprehensive briefing to Minister Rehman regarding their ongoing endeavors aimed at preserving the region’s natural environment.
They also shared details about various initiatives undertaken in collaboration with the Italian government to enhance climate resilience.
Minister Rehman expressed great appreciation for the significant efforts of the Gilgit-Baltistan government. She emphasized the visionary approach of Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, who declared the Khunjerab National Park a protected area in 1974. Notably, Khunjerab National Park is not only the highest-altitude national park in Pakistan but also one of the largest, underscoring the commitment to conservation and environmental preservation in the region.
The delegation from the University of Milan also presented a proposal for a project known as Water for Development (W4D). This three-year initiative, scheduled to commence in September 2023, aims to support sustainable development and adaptation policies in mountainous regions.
The project will focus on enhancing the management of water resources, landscape preservation, agricultural systems, and environmental risk through diligent monitoring activities. Additionally, it will emphasize the responsible and sustainable development of tourism, ensuring the safeguarding of environmental, agricultural, and cultural heritage, while also enhancing ecosystem services.
Moreover, the project seeks to strengthen the capacity of local governments in sustainable land management. The implementation of this project will be carried out in close collaboration with the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and other local partners.
Over Rs. 70 billion disbursed among 7.8 million beneficiaries under Benazir Kafaalat
ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP): Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has so far disbursed more than Rs. 70 billion among over 7.8 million beneficiary women under the Benazir Kafaalat initiative.
The process of disbursement of the 4th quarterly tranche of Benazir Kafaalat for the Financial Year-2022-23 is underway successfully across the country.
Under Benazir Kafaalat, 90 lakh registered beneficiary families are entitled to a quarterly installment of Rs 9,000 per family.
Benazir Income Support Programme has already released over rupees 81 billion to its partner banks, that is, Bank Alfalah and Habib Bank Limited (HBL) for disbursement among the beneficiaries through their retail distribution network.
Along with Benazir Kafaalat, Benazir Taleemi Wazaif are also being given out to the children of registered families, however, 70% attendance in the school is mandatory to receive Taleemi Wazaif, said the spokesman of the programme.
In case of any complaint, beneficiaries can approach the nearest BISP Tehsil Offices or call on toll-free helpline number 080026477 of Benazir Income Support Programme.
The BISP spokesman reiterated that any messages from Benazir Income Support Programme is sent only from 8171 and message from any other number should not be trusted.
IIUI President calls on education minister
ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP): President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI), Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, Tuesday, called on Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Rana Tanveer Hussain.
During the meeting, issues of mutual interests including initiatives for the promotion of quality education and the role of universities in society building were discussed.
The minister desired that the university having two internationally reputed faculties of Shariah and Law and Arabic can help Pakistani job seekers in the Arab world.
The IIUI President said that the university will be happy to introduce Arabic language and refresher legal courses in this regard and it will be keen to expand its bilateral ties across the country with the rest of the universities through its international-level Arabic faculty.
The minister, while appreciating the role of IIUI in society building and services, assured of maximum support to IIUI.
He said universities must be given opportunities for linkages. He said that universities must promote exchange of experiences through mutual cooperation.
Talking about bilateral relations, the minister said that Pakistan gave great importance to relations with Saudi Arabia as both are time-tested friends.
He added that brotherly ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are getting stronger with every passing day.
The minister also appreciated the role of the university leadership in its progress and appreciated the keen interest of the Pro-chancellor of the university Prof. Dr Ahmed bin Salem Al Ameri.
He also appreciated the IIUI President for making IIUI a peaceful true educational institution where officials and students have a prime focus on education.
On the occasion, IIUI President invited the honourable minister for the opening of the newly established state-of-the-art academic block with the funds provided by the Saudi government. He also apprised him of the university’s new journey to infrastructural development and academic excellence.
Dr. Hathal told that the university in the previous three years has made a meaningful advancement in rankings. He added that the university has raised two new faculties, two new academic blocks have been built and two more are in the pipeline.
He told that the university is focusing on preparing a skilled youth equipped with the knowledge of the latest market trends.
He also apprised of the university’s initiatives towards digitization, distance learning and utilization of modern technology for the students facilitation.
IIUI President briefed the minister on IIUI’s vision, future plans and strategy for academic excellence. IIUI President vowed that he will be in the leading ranks to seek guidance and extend cooperation with the ministry as per the aspirations of the minister for improvements in higher education.
Rs 77.8 bln projects for remote areas connectivity to be completed by year end under USF: Amin
ISLAMABAD, Jul 18 (APP): Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Syed Amin Ul Haque on Tuesday said that 83 projects worth Rs 77.8 billion would be completed by December 2023 under the Universal Service Fund (USF) to provide connectivity to remote and unserved areas across the country.
Addressing a press conference, he said the primary objective of the USF was to connect all citizens of the country, as digitalization had become a crucial priority for both businesses and communities.
Under the Next Generation Optic Fiber (NG-OF) Network and Services programme, he said, the USF had made significant strides, contracting over 16,000 km of Optic Fiber Cable (OFC), which was expected to benefit approximately 31.5 million people nationwide.
To achieve the milestone, the USF had diligently laid fiber optic cables and installed 4G and 3G towers in remote and previously unserved areas, he added.
The minister highlighted that all the efforts had resulted in an increase in the USF spending from Rs 15 billion to Rs. 77 billion during his tenure, demonstrating the government’s commitment to bridge the digital divide.
He also applauded the success of the Digi Skills programmes of Ignite, an initiative to provide freelancing courses to interested individuals. Around 3.3 million people had registered for these courses, exceeding the target by an impressive 75%, he added.
He noted that freelancers trained through the Digi Skills programmes had contributed significantly to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, earning a remarkable $290 million by June 2022.
A key focus for the government, he said, remained attracting further investment into the information technology sector.
He said the telecom sector witnessed the investment of about $7.1 billion during the last four years. Additionally, the IT sector made significant contributions to the national exchequer, depositing a substantial Rs 1120 billion in tax during the same period.
To foster a conducive environment for the tech industry, the minister said, the government had approved several crucial policies, including the Right of Way policy, first cloud policy, Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) Rule 2023, and cybersecurity policy.
He said the Ministry of Information, Technology, and Telecommunication had also finalized the “Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023,” after extensive consultations with stakeholders and sent it for approval to the Ministry of Law and Justice.
Minister Amin Ul Haque said they had set ambitious goals for the future, with IT exports expected to reach $15 billion and investment in the telecom sector to cross $10 billion in the coming years.
