Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, in collaboration with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, successfully concluded a five-day capacity-building workshop on DNS Operations and DNSSEC from July 21 to 25, 2025, in Islamabad. The workshop aimed to enhance technical proficiency within the telecom sector and strengthen DNSSEC revalidation capabilities to improve national-level internet security. Participants included representatives from telecom operators and other critical stakeholders working in internet infrastructure and cybersecurity.
The workshop was conducted to advance technical expertise in managing domain name systems with a focus on securing them through DNSSEC implementation. This initiative is part of broader efforts to reinforce trust in digital infrastructure and promote best practices in cyber resilience. By fostering knowledge-sharing and hands-on training, the sessions supported national efforts to align with global internet governance standards.
A significant outcome of this engagement was Pakistan’s DNSSEC revalidation score on the APNIC website, which now exceeds 85 percent. This represents the highest score in the region and signals Pakistan’s strengthened commitment to ensuring safe and secure internet infrastructure. The achievement underscores the impact of collaborative training programs and capacity-building activities in addressing cybersecurity challenges.
The closing ceremony was attended by Chairman PTA, Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, who reiterated PTA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the country’s cyber resilience. He acknowledged the importance of cross-border partnerships and multi-stakeholder collaboration in securing digital environments. Also present at the ceremony was Khawar Saddique Khokhar, Member Compliance & Enforcement, who reaffirmed PTA’s dedication to continued improvements in operational standards and compliance mechanisms.
During the event, shields were presented to ICANN trainers Mr. Fahd Batayneh and Mr. Mohamed Yazid Akanho, recognizing their contribution in delivering in-depth training sessions throughout the workshop. Their expertise supported participants in gaining critical insights into DNS security protocols and deployment techniques.
PTA has consistently prioritized international collaboration as a core strategy to promote a safer digital ecosystem in Pakistan. The workshop with ICANN is part of its ongoing strategy to develop secure frameworks and build institutional capacity across the telecom and digital services landscape. Through such initiatives, PTA aims to create an enabling environment that supports innovation while ensuring that national digital infrastructure remains resilient against evolving cyber threats.
