LAHORE: As humans wander endlessly to explore the universe, they are removed from the layers of mystery of nature that play a vital role in transforming society through multi-dimensional exploration, digital transformation and advanced technology.
Developed countries have stepped into the digital arena, and many developing countries are trying to match the pace despite resource, equipment and capacity constraints in almost all important areas of life.
Following the court case, Pakistan has taken several initiatives to digitize and improve governance, efficiency and transparency, modernize infrastructure and provide easy access to government services.
However, relevant governments like Pakistan have faced challenges such as adequate investment opportunities, trained teams of IT professionals, IT and software houses, secure internet infrastructure and strong regulations and cyber laws to ensure the positive use of digital developments.
“We often monitor complaints in public sector facilitation or assistance measures through digital means. This lack is often due to the lack of secure internet infrastructure or digital illiteracy that prevents users from fully utilizing tools and digital platforms,” said IT expert Irfanullah Khan. “
Traditional practices and attitudes about privacy and security shape attitudes toward new technologies, and overcoming these barriers requires a multidimensional approach in education, awareness, and policy, he said.
“Automation can have some disadvantages because increasing reliance on digital systems makes individuals or organizations more vulnerable to cyber attacks, data breaches and misuse of personal information,” said Irfanullah. “But, we have to live with it.”
Digital Pakistan Vision has been launched to create a knowledge based economy keeping in mind the modern requirements; digital payment system for e-governance, entrepreneurship, transparency, delivery of public services and reducing dependence on cash transactions.
Successive governments have focused on broadband expansion; development and strengthening of youth and professional skills; startup ecosystem to promote innovation and entrepreneurship and improve cybersecurity and protect digital assets.
Critical sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, finance, trade, communication, defense and above all human development data collection have leveraged digital tools for safe and rapid deployment. The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has undertaken several digital initiatives and is automating government processes and digitizing records.
The provincial government has also developed an e-governance platform to streamline administrative processes and make it easier for people to use e-Service centers electronically instead of visiting them physically. Initiatives such as the Agricultural Information System, the Health Information System and the Smart School program also demonstrate the scale of digital transformation.
In particular, Scholl’s Smart system has facilitated the learning of computer skills in rural areas through internet connectivity and the use of devices such as tablets and smartphones.
Teachers and students are encouraged to take advantage of educational programs, online learning and training, employment opportunities, and professional opportunities that allow them to integrate technology into their teaching practice.
“Despite the government’s digital initiatives, the lack of basic digital literacy in Pakistan hinders students’ effective use of digital tools and platforms, participation in the digital economy and access to essential services,” said university professor Zaffar Iqbal. Punjab.
“We can challenge the digital transformation by replacing outdated digital/IT regulations with innovative laws that meet current requirements and cyber security to protect our businesses and individuals.”
They focus on providing access to digital tools, internet connectivity, digital literacy in the curriculum, offering coding and programming classes, organizing workshops and partnering with technology companies for internships and professionals who support digitization among students in rural and urban areas.
Gold Ring Economic Forum Chairman Meher Kashif highlighted the shortage of skilled professionals in areas such as business, software development, data analytics and cyber security.
“Taking full advantage of this technology will be a challenge to survive as digitization provides the engine of growth,” he said. “We are lagging behind our regional competitors and any delay will reduce skilled interns from India and Bangladesh.
Digital transformation – a boon or bane
