Pakistan is set to auction double the current internet spectrum as part of its strategic preparation for nationwide 5G deployment, announced Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja. Speaking at the launch event of TikTok’s STEM Feed initiative, she emphasized that the spectrum expansion is critical for enabling advanced connectivity and addressing long-standing infrastructure gaps. Currently operating on 274 MHz of internet spectrum, the government plans to significantly increase capacity to accommodate the growing demand for high-speed internet and emerging technologies.
The last spectrum auction in the country took place in 2014 during the tenure of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. According to Shaza Fatima, the new auction will pave the way for a comprehensive rollout of 5G services once a few operational and regulatory hurdles are addressed. This move is part of broader efforts to upgrade the country’s digital landscape and integrate advanced communication technologies across multiple sectors.
Shaza Fatima also highlighted improvements in Pakistan’s global connectivity footprint, noting that seven submarine cables currently land in the country and three additional cables are scheduled for integration by the end of the year. Among them is the world’s largest submarine cable, which will enhance international bandwidth and strengthen Pakistan’s data infrastructure.
She underscored the role of technology in transforming education, noting that all federal educational institutions will be connected to fiber optic networks by December. This connectivity will support digital learning tools and bridge the gap in access to quality education. As part of this year’s digital skills development plan, one million children across Pakistan will be trained in artificial intelligence. This initiative is aligned with national efforts to prepare a future-ready workforce capable of adapting to evolving global demands.
The minister also spoke about the importance of inclusivity in public spaces and emphasized the need to create a safe and accessible digital environment, especially for women. She referenced the Digital Nation Act, passed in January, which aims to provide each child in Pakistan with a digital identity. This act is designed to streamline services related to education, healthcare, and business through an integrated digital system, reflecting the government’s intent to digitize core aspects of public life.
The event also featured remarks by Minister of State for Education Wajiha Qamar, who introduced STEM Feed, an educational initiative by TikTok aimed at promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among youth. She described the platform as a collaborative opportunity to move learning beyond traditional classrooms, encouraging institutions to work in sync rather than independently. The initiative is expected to serve as a modern educational tool for students across Pakistan, reinforcing the government’s commitment to innovation-driven learning and digital literacy.
