The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication, chaired by Syed Amin-ul-Haque, convened to address key issues including the prolonged internet suspension in Panjgur, Balochistan, and setbacks in national digital skills training programs.
Internet Blackout in Panjgur Raises Alarm
Officials from the Ministry of Interior briefed the committee on the continued internet suspension in Panjgur, revealing that a request for security clearance submitted on March 22 remains unapproved for a six-month period. The denial, based on unspecified security concerns, left committee members frustrated.
Paulene Baloch, a member of the committee, condemned the repeated internet blackouts, stating, “It feels like my district is being punished.” She emphasized the longstanding nature of the issue, and other members echoed her sentiments, warning that such shutdowns harm everyday citizens more than they prevent terrorism. Umair Niazi acknowledged Balochistan’s security challenges but stressed the need for structural reforms. Committee Chairman Amin-ul-Haque assured that the concerns of Balochistan are a top priority, adding, “The people of Balochistan are close to our hearts.”
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BEAP App Launch Expected by End of June
The committee also reviewed the status of the Better and Efficient Administrative Platform (BEAP) app, developed by the National Information Technology Board (NITB). Designed for secure communication among government officials, the app includes voice and video conferencing features. It is currently undergoing a final cybersecurity review, and the Ministry of IT aims to launch it by June 30, initially for federal departments, with plans to expand to provincial governments.
Delays in Ignite’s Digital Skills Programs
The committee expressed concern over delays in Ignite’s highly anticipated Coding and DG Skills programs, originally set to launch on June 14, 2024. Ignite representatives cited the need to update course content to reflect current AI trends, as well as the logistical challenge of training 10,000 individuals across five programming languages.
The committee urged all stakeholders to accelerate their efforts and ensure timely delivery of these vital digital initiatives, which are crucial for enhancing the country’s tech workforce and bridging the digital divide.
