ISLAMABAD-Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunications Anusha Rehman Khan said that ICT indicators can help monitor achievements in other areas included in the SDGs, such as poverty reduction, education and economic growth.
She expressed these views while addressing Pakistan ICT Indicators Symposium under the theme of “Multi-stakeholder Engagement to Highlight the need of ICT Data Reporting” here on Monday. The minister said it is imperative to mention that ICT indicators are the key enablers to achieve multiple SDGs. The event was jointly organized by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom (MoIT) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
On this occasion, Anusha Rehman Khan said that ICTs indicators are related to newly formulated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We all know SDGs of the United Nations (UN) represent a renewed commitment of the 193 countrys leaders to ending poverty, combat hunger, disease, promote social justice and human dignity.We all need to take a proactive approach to develop a comprehensive mechanism to collect all relevant ICT data,” she said.
The minister further added that Pakistan has shown tremendous growth in telecom sector over the last few years and it has also achieved some exceptional milestones. Similarly, on the policy front, finalization and approval of a comprehensive Telecommunication Policy is yet another milestone achieved, she added.
Earlier, addressing the event Secretary, MOIT said the government is committed to enhance the quality of manpower in the ICT sector.
“We will continue to provide the necessary support to the industry. We need the effort and close cooperation from all of us including operators, equipment manufacturers and content providers for the contribution of ICT sector in GDP,” he commented.
He appreciated the efforts of PTA towards proliferation of ICT sector of the country.