The Ignite National Technology Fund, an important initiative under the Ministry of IT and Telecom, has been stalled for over 14 months due to the absence of a permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the failure to convene board meetings. This prolonged delay has severely impacted critical projects that are essential for the growth of Pakistan’s IT sector and its broader economic goals.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Ignite has been operating without a permanent CEO for more than a year. The absence of a permanent head has left the organization in a state of uncertainty, with no one in charge to push forward crucial projects and strategic initiatives. Furthermore, the board of Ignite has not convened a meeting since September 2024, which has contributed to the stagnation of many important endeavors.
Zarrar Hasham Khan, the newly appointed Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecom, who also serves as the board chairman of Ignite, has yet to take the necessary steps to resume the operations of the board. Khan, appointed in September 2024, was the first-ever secretary from the private sector to hold the position. Despite this appointment, no progress has been made in addressing the leadership gap or scheduling board meetings, which has resulted in the paralysis of Ignite’s activities.
This lack of leadership and decision-making has had a domino effect on several high-value projects funded by the Ignite National Technology Fund. These projects, many of which are worth billions of rupees, are integral to the growth and development of Pakistan’s IT sector. They also directly support Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s ambitious goal of achieving $25 billion in IT exports for the country.
The stalling of these projects presents a significant roadblock in reaching Pakistan’s target for IT exports. Despite available funds, many of these projects are waiting for board approval, which has been delayed due to the board’s failure to meet. Without the necessary approvals, the execution of these vital projects cannot proceed, putting the country’s IT ambitions at risk.
The government’s IT export target has been a key focus in recent years, with the aim of boosting Pakistan’s technology sector to international standards. However, the ongoing delays within Ignite could undermine these efforts, as critical initiatives to improve infrastructure, support startups, and enhance technological capabilities remain stuck in limbo. In particular, projects that support innovation, digitalization, and entrepreneurship are crucial to not only meeting the $25 billion target but also ensuring long-term growth and sustainability in Pakistan’s IT sector.
The current situation highlights a broader challenge in the country’s public sector governance, where inefficiencies and administrative delays continue to hinder the progress of key initiatives. Without timely leadership and operational transparency, projects critical to economic development may face further setbacks.
In conclusion, the Ignite National Technology Fund’s prolonged stagnation is a matter of growing concern for Pakistan’s IT industry. The absence of a permanent CEO and the failure to convene board meetings have left several key projects in limbo, threatening the country’s ability to achieve its ambitious IT export goals. To move forward, it is essential that the Ministry of IT and Telecom takes immediate steps to resolve the leadership issues, convene the board, and ensure that the country’s technology sector can thrive and contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth.