WB Set to Grant $78M for A Digital Economy Project
Islamabad: The World Bank is set to greenlight a groundbreaking initiative, the “Pakistan: Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP)” worth $78 million.
The project aligns with the 2018 Digital Pakistan Policy, focusing on bridging the digital divide across underserved regions. DEEP aims to expand broadband access and develop digital literacy to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens to benefit from the digital revolution.
One of the key components of the DEEP is establishing a robust data exchange layer by NADRA, the National Database and Registration Authority. This layer will facilitate secure information sharing among government agencies and provide citizens with a digital ‘wallet’ to securely store credentials, such as birth certificates and banking information.
The DEEP will be implemented in three main components:
- It will focus on improving digital economy governance and service capabilities.
- It will support the establishment of the Pakistan Business Portal, which aims to modernize regulatory regimes at all levels of government.
- It will include project management efforts to ensure smooth implementation and coordination.
Mr. Shan Rehman, the project’s Task Team Leader, stated
“The digital economy and demand for digital government services have been growing across the country, increasing the need for connectivity, digital payments, and secure and trusted digital transactions.The project takes a whole-of-government approach to digital transformation and will help ensure that digital platforms are inclusive and trusted.”
Moreover, DEEP will encourage financial inclusion by empowering women to open bank accounts and apply for credit remotely through a smartphone app. It will also address barriers like digital literacy and limited mobility.
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