Islamabad, Pakistan — January 21, 2026
In a major push to expand digital connectivity across Pakistan, the Universal Service Fund (USF) and Jazz have officially launched Rs. 1.16 billion high-speed broadband projects targeting underserved districts in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The agreements were signed on Wednesday during a high-profile ceremony at the USF Head Office, marking a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and boost socio-economic development through enhanced internet access.
Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, presided over the event as the chief guest, underscoring the government’s focus on strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. The contracts were formally signed by Chaudhry Mudassar Naveed, CEO of USF, and Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz.
Broadband for Nine Districts in Punjab & KP
These high-impact broadband projects will extend high-speed internet and voice communication services to nine districts across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The covered areas include Bahawalnagar, Attock, Sargodha, Khushab, Faisalabad, Sheikhupura, Chiniot, and Abbottabad — regions with significant rural and semi-urban populations that have historically faced limited connectivity.
According to the Ministry of IT’s announcement, the initiative is expected to directly benefit approximately 533,000 residents across 203 villages and rural communities, helping integrate these communities into Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
Government Vision: Building a “Digital Nation”
In her keynote address, Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized that the partnership between USF and Jazz goes beyond contract signing — it represents a strategic investment in Pakistan’s digital future. She reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming internet access into a catalyst for economic growth, social inclusion, and educational advancement.
“Our unwavering mission is to catalyze ICT (Information and Communications Technology) growth across every avenue. Today, we are witnessing a historic surge in IT exports and international partnerships,” the Minister stated, noting that expansion of spectrum availability and the rollout of 5G services are in advanced stages, which will further elevate connectivity speeds across the country.
USF’s Strategic Role in Connectivity Expansion
The Universal Service Fund — a government-backed entity under the Ministry of IT and Telecommunications — plays a pivotal role in delivering broadband services to under-served and un-served areas nationwide through targeted investments. This latest project under the Next Generation Broadband for Sustainable Development (NG-BSD) program aligns with USF’s broader mission of fostering digital inclusion and providing equitable access to communication services.
In the past year alone, USF has approved broadband and fiber infrastructure initiatives exceeding Rs. 20.5 billion, demonstrating a continuous commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s digital backbone. These investments have significantly extended connectivity to rural regions, unlocking new opportunities for education, healthcare access, e-commerce, and entrepreneurship.
Completion Timeline & Future Impact
Officials from USF and Jazz have projected that the newly launched broadband projects are slated for completion within a 6- to 18-month timeframe, depending on local logistics and terrain challenges. Once finalized, these upgrades are expected to dramatically improve online access for families, students, and small businesses in peripheral regions that previously grappled with slow or unreliable internet.
While Pakistan’s urban centers have seen rapid improvements in internet speeds and mobile coverage, rural communities continue to lag behind. By prioritizing these high-speed broadband rollouts, the government seeks to level the playing field and ensure that citizens in every corner of Punjab and KP can participate in the digital economy. Experts say enhanced connectivity will not only improve quality of life but also attract investment and stimulate local economies.
Jazz’s Role in Pakistan’s Digital Transformation
As one of Pakistan’s leading digital operators, Jazz has been at the forefront of expanding network infrastructure and digital services. Its broader investment strategy — which includes billions in 4G network expansion, digital platforms, and financial inclusion initiatives — aligns with national goals to modernize the telecom sector and promote economic growth.
This latest collaboration with USF signifies a strong public-private partnership model, one aimed at accelerating Pakistan’s transition into a fully connected, innovation-driven digital nation.
