Maryam Nawaz reviews progress on Nawaz Sharif IT city.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting on Wednesday to review the progress of the Nawaz Sharif IT City project, the province’s flagship initiative aimed at accelerating technological advancement and innovation.

A major development highlighted during the meeting was the formal approval of the project by the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA), making it the first project in Punjab to receive such recognition. The STZA has officially approved the establishment of the NSIT Silicon Block, marking a key milestone.

Strong global interest in the project was also reported, with 23 internationally recognized IT companies expressing intent to set up operations within the Silicon Block. Plots for these developments have already been acquired.

In a significant educational collaboration, Imperial College London, in partnership with Novecare, will establish a cutting-edge medical college and hospital within the IT City. Meanwhile, NetCol is set to launch Pakistan’s first comprehensive IT university, and the Roots Group will collaborate with the University of Warwick, UK, on a joint venture.

Other tech developments include the establishment of Tier 3 and Tier 4 data centres by DataFort and Mari-Tech, while Data Rocks is preparing to set up Punjab’s first FTA-approved laboratory.

CEO of Central Business District (CBD) Punjab, Imran Amin, provided a detailed briefing on the project’s progress. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed all relevant departments to accelerate work and ensure timely implementation of the project.

She emphasized the need for proactive, efficient, and coordinated efforts to transform Nawaz Sharif IT City into a regional hub of innovation, investment, and employment.Tools