Islamabad Selected as Pilot Smart City Under Prime Minister’s Digital Pakistan Vision

Islamabad is set to become Pakistan’s first pilot smart city as part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s broader digital transformation vision. The announcement was made by Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who said the initiative will implement an integrated approach aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure, public services, and connectivity across the capital.

The Ministry of IT has already ensured fiber optic connectivity to all public schools and healthcare centers in Islamabad. In the coming six to eight months, full fiberization of hospitals, schools, and police stations is expected to be completed, laying the groundwork for seamless digital services.

In addition, the government plans to introduce free public Wi-Fi at metro stations and key public areas through public-private partnerships, aiming to improve digital access for citizens in both urban and remote locations.

The strategy also includes introducing educational technology and integrating artificial intelligence into early-grade curricula. In the healthcare sector, a “One Patient, One ID” system will be implemented to improve data consistency and support the rollout of telemedicine services in Basic Health Units (BHUs).

As part of the broader national digital skills program, the Ministry has set an ambitious target to train 500,000 youth in advanced IT skills, working in collaboration with leading global technology firms. The initiative is a major step toward creating a digitally inclusive society and positioning Islamabad as a model for smart urban development.