Huawei’s Sustainability Forum in 2023, themed “Thrive together with Tech,” underscores the tech giant’s commitment to sustainable development by focusing on global connectivity and its collaborative efforts with the ITU’s Partner2Connect Digital Coalition.
Having pledged to bring connectivity to over 120 million people in remote areas across 80 countries by 2025, Huawei showcased tangible progress during the event held on November 21, 2023, in Dongguan, China, with parallel sessions globally.
The forum highlighted the integral relationship between technology, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Noteworthy among Huawei’s collaborative projects is the Gokina Smart Village initiative in rural Pakistan, a venture involving Huawei, ITU, Universal Service Fund (USF), Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), and UNDP. This initiative successfully brought network coverage and essential services to a previously disconnected area, earning praise from Hassan Nasir Jamy, the Federal Secretary for the Ministry of IT Telecommunication in Pakistan.
Jamy expressed gratitude for achieving a significant milestone in the journey toward a Digital Pakistan. He emphasized the transformative impact of the Smart Village Pakistan Project, citing advancements in education, healthcare, and digital skills. The collaboration with partners like Huawei and ITU addressed critical needs, such as a shortage of science teachers in girls’ schools and limited access to healthcare services.
In alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Pakistan’s Digital Pakistan vision, the Smart Village Pakistan Project signifies a commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring no community is left behind in the digital era, as mentioned by the Honorable Federal Secretary. Ethan Sun, CEO of Huawei Technologies Pakistan, emphasized that the Gokina Smart Village Project goes beyond connectivity, aiming to transform lives by overcoming challenges like limited access to essential services.
Deputy CEO and Director Subsidiary Board Huawei Pakistan, Ahmed Bilal Masud, highlighted the project’s progress and achievements, focusing on education, health, and digital skills. The strategic collaboration with Tele-Taleem for e-education, Sehat Kahani for e-health, and a holistic approach to digital skills and entrepreneurship addresses challenges faced by local residents.
Situated in the mountains of Islamabad, the Gokina Smart Village Project, with its proximity to the capital, has the potential to contribute significantly to economic development by providing essential services and fostering community involvement. The collaboration exemplifies Huawei’s commitment to sustainable development through technological innovation and strategic partnerships.
