In a bold move to accelerate its digital infrastructure, Pakistan is set to double its available internet spectrum—an essential step toward the nationwide rollout of 5G technology.
5G Preparations Shift Into High Gear
Minister of IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, revealed the government’s strategy during the launch of TikTok’s STEM Feed initiative in Islamabad. Pakistan currently operates on 274 MHz of internet spectrum, but the government is preparing to auction off twice that amount.
The last major spectrum auction took place over a decade ago, in 2014, under then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. “We’re now ready to take a leap forward,” Khawaja said. She noted that some final hurdles remain, but once cleared, the 5G deployment will move ahead.
Global Connectivity: Pakistan Expands Submarine Cable Network
To support this growing demand for bandwidth, Pakistan is also expanding its international connectivity. Seven submarine cables currently link the country to the global internet, and three more are expected by year’s end—including what Khawaja described as “the world’s largest” submarine cable.
AI Training, Fiber Optics, and the Push for Digital Equity
Beyond 5G, the government is advancing its digital transformation agenda on multiple fronts. One standout initiative aims to train one million children in artificial intelligence as part of this year’s national digital skills program.
Khawaja also pledged that by December 2025, all federal educational institutions would be connected via fiber optic networks—a significant shift for a country where reliable connectivity has long been a barrier, even in urban schools.
“We’re aligning with global trends,” she said, emphasizing the urgency for Pakistan to keep pace with technological change. She also stressed the importance of safe and inclusive public spaces, especially for women, who she called “talented and hardworking.”
From the Classroom to the Cloud: A New Era for Education
The event also highlighted the government’s broader vision under the Digital Nation Act, passed earlier this year. The legislation lays the groundwork for a comprehensive digital identity system, starting from childhood. “Whether it’s health, education, or business—every aspect of a citizen’s life will be integrated and digitized,” Khawaja explained.
TikTok’s STEM Feed Launches to Support Youth Learning
The announcement came during TikTok’s unveiling of STEM Feed, a new platform designed to make science, technology, engineering, and math more accessible to students across Pakistan.
Minister of State for Education, Wajiha Qamar, called the initiative a step toward educational collaboration. “STEM Feed will allow institutions to break out of their silos and work together to empower learners,” she said, adding that it takes education beyond traditional classrooms.
