Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to transforming Pakistan into a regional hub for Information Technology, highlighting initiatives aimed at fostering youth engagement, education, and entrepreneurship in the digital sector. The premier made these remarks during a meeting with Samina Amjad and Amjad Karim Randhawa, parents of late IT prodigy Arfa Karim Randhawa, alongside Tabinda Islam, Chief Executive of the Arfa Karim Foundation, in Lahore. He emphasized that providing young Pakistanis with international-standard education and practical training in IT remains a top priority for the government, alongside the promotion of entrepreneurship to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that the government is supporting high-performing students by distributing laptops to assist their academic pursuits and facilitate access to technology-driven learning resources. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Arfa Karim, recognizing her remarkable achievements in the IT sector at a young age and her contributions in bringing international recognition to Pakistan. He emphasized that nurturing talent and providing opportunities for innovation among youth are central to the government’s vision of establishing Pakistan as a competitive IT destination in the region.
In addition to discussing IT sector development, the Prime Minister addressed a recent cylinder accident in Islamabad that resulted in the loss of lives and injuries. Expressing deep sorrow, he prayed for the forgiveness of the deceased and for the speedy recovery of those injured. He directed Federal Minister for Health, Secretary Health, and Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences administration to remain on high alert, ensuring the injured receive the best available medical care until complete recovery. Shehbaz Sharif further instructed Secretary Interior to conduct a detailed investigation to determine the causes of the incident and hold responsible parties accountable.
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of public awareness regarding safety precautions for gas cylinders. He instructed Islamabad administration to launch a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. By linking technology, youth development, and public safety initiatives, the government intends to advance a comprehensive approach toward modernizing Pakistan’s digital economy while safeguarding citizens. Through these measures, Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the interconnection between human capital development, innovation, and practical policy interventions in building a resilient, technologically advanced society capable of competing at regional and global levels.
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