In a groundbreaking move to digitally empower students and celebrate a major national telecom milestone, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in partnership with leading telecom operators and the Ministry of IT, has launched a series of nationwide digital inclusion initiatives. These include free Wi-Fi hotspots, smartphone distribution, and free data packages for millions of subscribers.
Free Wi-Fi at Universities for Six Months
PTA, in collaboration with PTCL, Transworld, Nayatel, Cybernet, and Wateen, has rolled out a six-month free Wi-Fi service at select HEC-recognized universities, including women’s universities across Pakistan. The initiative aims to reduce the digital divide in the education sector by giving students uninterrupted access to the internet.
This move is seen as a major step toward supporting digital education, especially in underserved regions. The Wi-Fi hotspots are being installed with an emphasis on connectivity, reliability, and inclusivity, ensuring that even remote universities benefit from high-speed internet access.
Smartphone Giveaway for Women
In a further push to improve digital access for women, 200 locally assembled smartphones will be distributed to female SIM card holders through a computerized ballot system. This initiative spans the entire country, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).
These smartphones have been donated by local mobile manufacturers, showcasing a unified effort between government and industry to empower women with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world. PTA emphasized that this gesture is more than symbolic — it’s a practical step toward inclusion, independence, and opportunity.
Celebrating a Telecom Milestone: 200 Million Subscribers
The announcement of these initiatives coincides with a historic achievement in Pakistan’s telecom sector: the country has officially crossed 200 million telecom subscribers. Of these, more than 125 million are broadband users, and 15 million are FTTH (Fiber to the Home) connections — a reflection of growing digital adoption and infrastructure development nationwide.
To celebrate this landmark, PTA and mobile network operators are giving back to users through a special one-day offer. On June 20, 2025, all subscribers across Pakistan will receive 2 GB of free data and 200 on-net minutes.
Users can activate this free package by simply dialing *2200# from their mobile devices. This limited-time offer marks a symbolic gesture of appreciation to the people of Pakistan for embracing digital transformation.
Digital Outreach in Balochistan and Merged Districts
As part of a broader Digital Outreach Program, PTA has partnered with PTCL, Ufone, and the Ministry of IT to roll out internet setups and free laptop distribution across selected universities in Balochistan and merged districts (ex-FATA).
This initiative addresses the urgent need to bridge the digital gap in underdeveloped areas by providing access to both devices and reliable connectivity. Through this program, thousands of students in marginalized regions will have the opportunity to engage in modern learning, online research, and remote academic collaboration.
PTA’s Vision for a Digitally Empowered Nation
PTA reiterated its long-standing commitment to “connecting Pakistan” and ensuring every citizen — regardless of gender or geography — has access to essential digital resources. These efforts are aligned with Pakistan’s broader digital policy objectives, which include:
- Promoting e-learning and remote education
- Expanding broadband infrastructure in rural and urban areas alike
- Enabling women and youth through smart technology
- Supporting locally assembled smartphone ecosystems
- Encouraging public-private collaboration to enhance digital access
With telecom playing a pivotal role in everything from education and healthcare to entrepreneurship and innovation, PTA’s latest initiatives show a proactive approach to using milestones not just as celebrations — but as opportunities for inclusive progress.
A New Chapter in Pakistan’s Digital Growth
The combined impact of free internet, smartphone access, and nationwide digital programs signals a clear message: Pakistan is moving confidently into the digital future. With continued support from industry partners and a focus on underserved communities, PTA is helping to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
Whether it’s a student attending online classes, a woman launching her freelance career, or a remote university gaining internet access for the first time — these initiatives are changing lives and reshaping Pakistan’s digital narrative.
