Embracing the Digital Transformation Journey at GNIES - Dean's Message

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,
I am excited to address you as the Dean of the Faculty of Computer Sciences at Ghazi National Institute of Engineering and Sciences (GNIES) in Dera Ghazi Khan. In today's rapidly evolving world, the digital landscape has become a key driver of progress, influencing economies and societies alike. As we stand on the precipice of a new era, it is essential for us to align our efforts with the national vision for a Digital Pakistan.

Our mission is to become a strategic enabler for an accelerated digitization ecosystem, contributing to the expansion of the knowledge-based economy and spurring socio-economic growth. To achieve this, let us focus on the following policy objectives outlined in the Digital Pakistan Policy:

I. Holistic Digital Strategy:

Let's embrace a comprehensive digital strategy that goes beyond a piece-meal approach. Our aim is to create a digital ecosystem with robust infrastructure and institutional frameworks, facilitating the rapid delivery of innovative digital services, applications, and content.

II. Sectorial Digitalization:

We must promote the use of technology in education, health, agriculture, and other key sectors. Let's encourage the integration of ICT in education sector, ensuring they are online and have a meaningful impact on the education ecosystem.

III. E/M-Commerce:

To enhance the market size of e/m-commerce, we need to provide an environment conducive to the operation of Payment Service Providers and Operators. By doing so, we can take e-commerce activities in Pakistan to the next level, leveraging the exponential growth in broadband subscribers.

IV. Youth, Women, and Girls Empowerment using IT:

Recognizing the potential of our youth, especially women and girls, we will initiate specific ICT programs to impart quality training in computer skills. This will not only reduce inequalities but also promote economic growth in line with relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

V. Promote Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Incubators/Startups in IT Sector:

Let's generate sustainable innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for our technology-savvy youth. Collaboration with international partners and setting up incubation centers will be instrumental in fostering growth in emerging technology domains.

VI. Increase Software Exports, IT Remittances & Domestic Market:

We will work towards boosting software exports, IT remittances, and expanding the domestic market by leveraging the success of our IT industry and freelance sector.

VII. ICT Ranking of Pakistan:

Improving Pakistan's ICT ranking on international indices is crucial. We will focus on enhancing the business and innovation environment, infrastructure, affordability, skills readiness, and socio-economic impact.

VIII. Digital Inclusion:

We are committed to bridging the digital divide, including urban and rural disparities, gender inequality, and accessibility for persons with disabilities. Initiatives like the development of IT zones and software technology parks, as well as setting up telecenters, will play a key role in this regard.

IX. E-Governance:

To make Pakistan a frontrunner in good governance, we will promote e-Governance by integrating government databases and applications, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

X. Increase Foreign and Domestic Investment:

Our goal is to make Pakistan an attractive destination for investment in the IT/ITeS industries, creating jobs and fueling economic growth.

XI. Persons with Disabilities:

Reducing barriers to online access for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is a priority. We will include provisions for the prodigious empowerment of PWDs in IT accessibility.

XII. Standardization:

Supporting standardization efforts will maximize reusability, create synergies, and deliver cost-effectiveness. This includes facilitating international standards certification such as CMMI, ISO, and procurement.
In conclusion, let us collectively work towards realizing these policy objectives, contributing to the broader vision of a Digital Pakistan. Together, we can shape the future and empower our students to become leaders in the digital age.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to excellence.