PM Approves Search Committee for PAK Digital Authority Hiring

In a key development towards strengthening Pakistan’s digital governance, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has given formal approval to form a search committee tasked with hiring top officials for the newly established Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA). This move is part of the government’s broader digital transformation strategy aimed at modernizing public services, improving cybersecurity, and supporting the country’s digital economy.

• The Prime Minister approved the formation of a search committee to oversee appointments to the Pakistan Digital Authority.

• The committee will be responsible for selecting competent professionals for senior roles, including the Chairman and Members of the Authority.

• The Pakistan Digital Authority is being set up to regulate digital platforms, promote IT innovation, and enhance cybersecurity frameworks.

• The hiring process will be transparent, merit-based, and aligned with international standards, according to official statements.

• The initiative supports the government’s vision of making Pakistan a regional hub for digital services.

The Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA) is envisioned as the primary regulatory and enabling body for digital technologies and services in the country. Its mandate includes:

• Formulating policies for the digital sector.

• Regulating digital platforms, apps, and services.

• Promoting e-governance and digital public services.

• Strengthening data protection and cybersecurity frameworks.

• Supporting the growth of Pakistan’s IT and startup ecosystems.

• The search committee will consist of experienced professionals and technocrats from the fields of IT, law, corporate governance, and academia.

• Its mandate is to ensure the appointment of qualified and visionary leaders who can guide Pakistan’s digital future.

• The committee will propose candidates for:

• Chairman of the PDA

• Members for key divisions, such as cybersecurity, digital services, and platform regulation.

A spokesperson from the Prime Minister’s Office stated:

“The formation of this search committee is an important milestone in our journey towards digital Pakistan. The Prime Minister is committed to ensuring that the Pakistan Digital Authority is led by the best talent our country has to offer.”

It signals the government’s serious intent to modernize Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
A strong Pakistan Digital Authority will help protect the public from online threats and digital fraud.
The initiative could attract foreign investment in Pakistan’s IT sector.
It supports the country’s compliance with global data privacy and cybersecurity standards.

With the Pakistan Digital Authority operational, the government aims to:

• Facilitate secure digital transactions.

• Build trust in digital platforms.

• Launch nationwide digital literacy programs.

• Encourage local development of apps and tech solutions.

• Create policies for the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies.

The approval of the search committee for Pakistan Digital Authority hiring is a critical step in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey. With transparent, merit-based appointments, the government hopes to build an institution that will safeguard public interests, foster innovation, and drive the nation’s digital progress.