Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in collaboration with PTCL, Transworld, Nayatel, Cybernet, and Wateen, has rolled out a six-month free WiFi initiative across selected HEC-recognized universities, including institutions dedicated to women. The project is part of PTA’s broader commitment to enhance digital accessibility in the education sector and empower youth, particularly female students. Universities included in the initiative will benefit from high-speed connectivity, aiming to support online learning, research, and digital engagement.
Alongside this, PTA will facilitate the distribution of 200 locally assembled smartphones to female SIM card holders across Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). The smartphones, contributed by mobile phone manufacturers, will be allotted through a computerized ballot system to ensure fair and transparent distribution. This move is designed to address the digital divide and offer women better access to mobile connectivity and online resources.
This announcement also aligns with a significant milestone in Pakistan’s telecom journey, as the total number of telecom subscribers has crossed 200 million. Among these are over 125 million broadband users and 15 million FTTH (Fiber to the Home) connections, indicating the rising adoption of high-speed internet services nationwide. PTA emphasized that these developments reflect growing public reliance on digital platforms and consistent infrastructure expansion by telecom service providers.
To commemorate the achievement, PTA and mobile operators have introduced a special offer for subscribers across the country. On June 20, 2025, users will receive 2 GB of free data and 200 on-net minutes. The offer can be activated by dialing *2200#. This initiative seeks to thank users while promoting broader engagement with mobile data services.
Furthermore, PTA, in partnership with PTCL, Ufone, and the Ministry of IT, has launched a Digital Outreach Program aimed at improving digital inclusion in underserved regions. Under this program, internet setups will be established at selected universities in Balochistan and the merged districts, along with the distribution of free laptops to students. These efforts are focused on promoting digital education and ensuring equitable access to technology in remote areas.
PTA reiterated its long-standing vision to digitally empower Pakistan and foster a connected society. The collaborative initiatives announced reflect ongoing public-private efforts to close the connectivity gap, support higher education through technology, and enable digital inclusion for all, particularly women and students in marginalized regions.
