Islamabad, Pakistan – The National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT), in collaboration with the National Telecommunication and Information Security Board (NTISB), recently conducted a high-level session under the “CyberSecureGov: Cyber Guidelines Initiative.” This dedicated seminar focused on cybersecurity governance and implementation frameworks, forming a key part of the Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP), a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at fortifying Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
The event brought together prominent stakeholders from various government and technology sectors, including Ignite – National Technology Fund, the National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA), the Board of Investment (BOI), the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), the National Information Technology Board (NITB), and the Ministry of Defence. Additionally, the Project Management Unit of DEEP played an active role in discussions, reinforcing a collective commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s cybersecurity resilience.
DG National CERT, Dr. Haider Abbas, TI, formally introduced National CERT to the participants, laying the groundwork for in-depth discussions on cybersecurity governance. The session was further enriched by insights from Dr. Mehreen Afzal, who highlighted key cybersecurity governance models and best practices critical for ensuring the successful implementation of DEEP. The discussions revolved around creating a robust cybersecurity ecosystem, aligning national policies with global standards, and mitigating cyber threats that could impact Pakistan’s digital transformation initiatives.
One of the seminar’s core themes was the need for a unified national approach toward cybersecurity. Participants explored ways to enhance inter-agency collaboration, streamline cybersecurity policies across federal and provincial levels, and implement proactive strategies to address emerging threats. The involvement of multiple government agencies emphasized the importance of a coordinated national cybersecurity strategy, ensuring that Pakistan’s digital economy remains resilient against evolving cyber threats.
As Pakistan advances its digital initiatives under DEEP, cybersecurity remains a critical component. The insights shared during the seminar underscored the necessity of embedding cybersecurity best practices into all digital projects. Experts at the session also stressed the need for continuous capacity building, awareness programs, and public-private partnerships to enhance Pakistan’s cybersecurity posture.
The CyberSecureGov initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening cybersecurity governance in Pakistan. By bringing together provincial CERTs, key governmental bodies, and cybersecurity professionals, the seminar set the stage for a more secure and digitally resilient future. The discussions reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to adopting international cybersecurity standards while tailoring strategies to local needs, ensuring a robust framework for protecting digital assets and national infrastructure.
With initiatives like CyberSecureGov, Pakistan is moving toward a more structured and secure digital governance model. The National CERT, NTISB, and other key stakeholders remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and integrity of the country’s digital ecosystem, paving the way for a more secure and innovation-driven digital economy.
