In a groundbreaking move to future-proof its digital landscape, Pakistan is set to double its current internet spectrum bandwidth in preparation for a full-scale 5G rollout across the country, confirmed by Minister for IT & Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
The Big Picture: From 274 MHz to Double Bandwidth
Speaking at the launch of TikTok’s STEM Feed initiative, the minister announced:
“Pakistan is currently operating on 274 MHz of internet spectrum. We are preparing to auction double that capacity to ensure our 5G readiness.”
The last major spectrum auction took place in 2014, and the move to expand spectrum availability is expected to unlock faster, more reliable internet for both urban and remote areas.
Strengthening Digital Infrastructure
Pakistan already has 7 submarine cables connected to its infrastructure, with 3 more planned by year-end, including the world’s largest submarine cable system, further ensuring high-speed international connectivity.
These upgrades are critical not only for 5G but also for cloud computing, online education, and future tech innovation.
AI & STEM: Empowering the Next Generation
The digital revolution isn’t just about faster downloads — it’s about nation-building through knowledge.
- 1 million students will receive training in artificial intelligence (AI) this year under Pakistan’s Digital Skills Program.
- All federal educational institutions will be connected to fiber optic internet by December 2025.
- The government is pushing for a collaborative education model, breaking silos across institutions using tools like TikTok’s STEM Feed.
“We must match the pace of a changing world. Connectivity in schools is no longer optional—it’s essential,” said Shaza Fatima.
Women, Safety & Inclusion in Digital Spaces
Shaza Fatima emphasized the importance of safe digital environments for women, stating:
“Women in our country are talented and hardworking. We must make all public spaces, including digital ones, safe and inclusive for them.”
The Digital Nation Act: A Bold New Identity
Pakistan’s new Digital Nation Act, passed in January 2025, aims to give every citizen a unique digital identity.
This identity will unify records related to:
- Education
- Health
- Business
- Social programs
The goal: to make every service smarter, faster, and more accessible, from birth to business registration.
Why This Matters Globally
With this push, Pakistan joins the ranks of nations actively leapfrogging into the digital future—using strategic public-private partnerships, local innovation, and youth empowerment.
The 5G launch, AI training, and STEM-centered education overhaul will transform:
- E-governance
- Startups
- Health tech
- Digital entrepreneurship
- Women-led innovation
Is your country preparing its youth for an AI-powered, 5G-enabled future?
Pakistan’s model offers a case study in how emerging economies can leap ahead by betting on youth, inclusion, and technology.
It’s not just spectrum expansion — it’s a vision for a digital society.
Key Highlights:
- Pakistan to double current internet spectrum for 5G
- 10 submarine cables to boost global internet access
- 1 million youth to be trained in AI by end of 2025
- All federal schools to have fiber optic internet
- New Digital Nation Act will digitize every citizen’s records
- Major support for women’s digital inclusion and safe spaces
