Swabi: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), in collaboration with Huawei Technologies and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has inaugurated the third Smart Village in Swabi. The initiative aims to extend digital services and connectivity to underserved rural areas.
Following previous pilot projects in Gokina and Sambrial, the Swabi Smart Village will focus on providing digital education, healthcare, and training services, with a particular emphasis on women and farmers. Training will include basic digital literacy, e-commerce, online marketing, and the use of digital financial tools.
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Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, speaking at the inauguration, said the Smart Village project is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote equitable digital access across Pakistan. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce 5G technology and develop technology parks to foster innovation.
Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava of ITU noted the project demonstrates how digital solutions can support inclusive and sustainable development. Huawei Pakistan Deputy CEO Ahmed Bilal Masood described the launch as a step toward narrowing the digital gap between urban and rural populations.
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The Swabi Smart Village is being implemented in partnership with TeleTaleem (for digital education), Sehat Kahani (for telehealth services), and Baidarie (for community engagement). The model is intended to serve as a framework for similar initiatives across the country.