ISLAMABAD: State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja underscored importance of equipping country’s youth with latest technological advancements happening globally.

“Everything now revolves around technology and we have to adapt as quickly as possible. We must ensure that our young people are well-versed in technological advancements happening globally, whether for social or economic development,” she said during launch of State of Youth Entrepreneurship Ecosystem report.

She highlighted transformative opportunities available to youth in digital age, where advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping industries.

She mentioned how platforms like Meta AI (used in WhatsApp and other meta platforms) were introduced in Pakistan before globally, showcasing potential and capacity of Pakistani youth.

“We are pushing for startup ecosystem under vision of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and government is embarking on journey of national digitization, aiming to digitise government processes, economy, and society,” she elaborated.

Minister outlined government’s goal of creating digital identities for every citizen, which would enhance living standards and interactions with government. She emphasized role of fintech in formalizing economy, noting shift towards digital payments even among street vendors. She informed about evolution of Pakistan’s economy, with street vendors accepting digital payments through platforms like EasyPaisa, highlighting how this formalisation of economy benefits country.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 07 2024

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