Pakistan must bridge access gaps to unlock AI's economic potential, says Jazz's Kazim Mujtaba

Kazim Mujtaba, President of Jazz GSM, told an Asia Pacific Telecommunity symposium that Pakistan must close gaps in device affordability, connectivity and digital skills so artificial intelligence can unlock its economic potential. According to Profit by Pakistan Today, he argued that the benefits of AI should reach farmers, small businesses and underserved communities, not only major urban centers. Speaking on a panel about the Universal Service Fund, he said investment in data centers and advanced networks needs to be matched by affordable devices and reliable links.

The report put 5G device penetration at an estimated 5 to 7 per cent, making affordable, compatible smartphones a key challenge as next-generation mobile networks expand. Mujtaba said Jazz is ready to work with the USF on initiatives that raise device uptake and extend advanced connectivity. Of the approximately 40 million households, around five million are served by fiber broadband, leaving considerable room for expansion.

Panelists stressed right-of-way access, infrastructure sharing and supportive spectrum policies as ways to lower deployment costs and broaden access. Satellite and direct-to-device technologies were discussed as complements to terrestrial networks for remote areas and disaster-hit regions.