NHDR 2024 on Digital Transformation Launched in AJK
News Desk
Muzaffarabad: The National Human Development Report (NHDR) 2024, focusing on digital transformation in Pakistan, was launched in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Tuesday.
Organized in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and CODE Pakistan, the launch was supported by the SDG Unit, Prime Minister Secretariat, the Planning and Development Department, and the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
UNDP’s Assistant Resident Representative, Ammara Durrani, presented key findings of the report via video link, followed by a screening of the NHDR 2024.
Addressing the event, AJK Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan emphasized the significance of digital transformation in sustainable development, noting that AJK’s Digital Human Development Index score was higher than other provinces. He called for a coordinated strategy to implement digital initiatives effectively.
“The UNDP’s efforts in promoting digital transformation are commendable,” he said. “Internet accessibility in rural areas is crucial for economic stability and swift problem-solving.”
He also urged government departments to adopt e-governance for improved public service delivery.
The Chief Secretary thanked UNDP, CODE Pakistan, the University of AJK, and other partners for their contributions. Secretary IT Rafaqat Mughal acknowledged these efforts and discussed the IT landscape in AJK.
UNDP and CODE Pakistan formally presented the NHDR 2024 to the Chief Secretary, who later visited exhibition stalls featuring digital initiatives from the Special Communications Organization (SCO), IT Board, the University of AJK’s Computer Science Department, the Education Department, the Bureau of Statistics, and Moon Creation.
Asma Andrabi, Donors Coordination Consultant to the AJK Prime Minister, accompanied the Chief Secretary and briefed him on the showcased projects.
The event also featured a panel session moderated by Dilawar Khan from CODE Pakistan, where successful women entrepreneurs, including Maria Riaz (founder of Y-Bucks) and Tooba Majeed, discussed leveraging digital platforms for business growth.
Experts such as Muneeb Ahmed Khan (former Director General, IT Board), Dr Khalid Rafiq, and Dr Rabia Riaz shared insights on sustainable development through digitalization.
The event was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Atif Rahman, Secretary of School Education Qazi Inayat Ali, Secretary of Industries and Commerce Khalid Mehmood Mirza, Secretary of Environment Amir Mehmood Mirza, Secretary of Sportsnet Muhammad Rashid Hanif, Mayor Syed Sikandar Gilani, digital platform owners, students, and other notable participants.
