Personal Message – Amer Hashmi: Building a Knowledge Economy and the Future of STZA
Dear Respected Technology Advocates, Innovators, Entrepreneurs, and Esteemed Colleagues,
I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. It is with mixed emotions that I inform you of my decision to step down from my position as Chairman of the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) in August. This was not an easy choice to make, but I firmly believe that STZA now stands on a strong foundation to fulfill its statutory mission and duties.
During my tenure as Chairman, I had the privilege of working with a dedicated team and advocating for the importance of ‘ILM’ (Knowledge) as the central pillar for building a vibrant and inclusive economic blueprint for Pakistan. This is especially crucial during these challenging times when our nation faces the aftermath of devastating floods, necessitating innovative technology-driven solutions. My thoughts and prayers go out to those who have suffered losses and are in need of support.
I would like to share three thought-provoking books that illustrate the strategic significance of Knowledge for nation-building and human capital development: “Kashf ul Mahjub” by Hazrat Ali Hajweri, “Minhaj ul Abideen” by Hazrat Imam Ghazzali, and “The Sufi Path of Knowledge” by Hazrat Ibn al Arabi. These transformative books provide a philosophical framework that enables rapid and cohesive development through the application of knowledge in all aspects of our economy and society. They inspire innovation, entrepreneurship, and a quest to explore uncharted frontiers through science and technology.
Building upon the strong foundation of STZA, I would like to highlight some key facts:
- STZA is supported by a highly professional and competent management team.
- The authority is empowered by a unanimously passed Act of Parliament.
- Land parcels across the country have been identified and approved as Special Technology Zones (STZs), with some provinces ready to announce in sync with the Federal Government.
- A high-quality pipeline of Zone Developers and Zone Enterprises is prepared to apply.
- A global network of partners is ready to assist all tech organizations operating within the ecosystem.
- Licenses have been granted to several eligible Zone Developers (ZDs) and Zone Enterprises (ZEs).
- Many global technology companies have expressed interest in launching their operations in Pakistan’s STZs.
- A comprehensive strategy for a nationwide rollout, including clusters, has been approved at the last STZA Board of Governors meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister.
- The majority of STZA rules and regulations have been completed.
- There is a genuine belief among all stakeholders that the implementation of STZA’s mandate is a strategic priority for the economic development of Pakistan.
Despite stepping down from my position, I remain committed to the triple-helix knowledge ecosystem and look forward to continuing our interactions. I urge all stakeholders in the corporate, academia, and government sectors to lend their support to STZA. The development of a “Knowledge Economy” in our country, the empowerment of youth, and the unlocking of Pakistan’s true technology potential depend on our collective efforts. I also encourage Pakistani youth to explore, invent, collaborate, and lead the way towards Pakistan’s socio-economic transformation through innovation and entrepreneurship.
To provide you with a more detailed update about STZA, I have attached a report with this message. May Allah (SWT) bless Pakistan with prosperity and success.
With Warm Regards,
Amer Hashmi
