SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a major briefing on Monday, May 11, 2026, revealing that Pakistan’s IT sector is on the verge of a historic breakthrough. Projections suggest IT exports will hit a record $4.5 billion to $4.6 billion by the end of the current fiscal year, signaling a robust shift toward a digital-first economy.
Digital Expansion & Revenue Milestones
The review of the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication highlighted several key achievements:
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Massive Connectivity Leap: Domestic internet connections have more than doubled in just two years, skyrocketing from 1.9 million in 2024 to 5.1 million in 2026.
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The 5G Windfall: The successful rollout of 5G technology has already contributed $509 million in revenue to the national treasury.
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AI Leadership: The "Indus AI Week" initiative, held across 30 cities in early 2025, successfully positioned Pakistan on the global tech map by hosting over 100 international delegates.
Local Infrastructure & Education
The Prime Minister emphasized that the benefits of the IT boom must reach every citizen:
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Smart Schools: High-speed fiber connectivity has been integrated into government schools and healthcare units in Islamabad.
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Public Access: Free internet hotspots are nearing completion across the capital, while e-learning pods are being installed in public spaces like Fatima Jinnah Park to foster digital literacy.
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Regional Integration: PM Shehbaz directed the immediate expansion of Asaan Khidmat Centres to Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir to ensure administrative services are digitized nationwide.
Bridging the Digital Divide
The Prime Minister underscored that the government's top priority remains narrowing the gap between urban and rural tech access. He called for closer coordination with provincial and district governments to ensure that Pakistan’s "immense youth potential" is not hindered by geographical barriers.