Pakistan secured three significant recognitions at the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) Digital Excellence Awards 2026, held in London as part of the CTO’s historic 125th anniversary celebrations, marking an important international acknowledgement of Pakistan’s progress in digital policy, innovation, citizen centric public service delivery, and telecommunication governance.
Pakistan secured the winner award in the Digital Policy & Regulatory Excellence category for the project titled “Establishment of National Incubation Centers”. The initiative has established a nationwide network of incubation platforms supporting young innovators and entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into viable enterprises through mentoring, technology support, business development services and access to investor networks.
Pakistan also secured Runner-Up (Silver Medal) in the 21st Century Government / E-Government Initiatives Excellence category for the project “Transforming Government Relief Delivery Through Digital Transformation”. The initiative demonstrates how digital systems can strengthen the delivery of government assistance by enhancing transparency, efficiency, targeting and accountability, while enabling faster and more inclusive access to relief.
The project “Integrated Spectrum Governance Reform” was named as finalist (Bronze Medal) in the Digital Policy & Regulatory Excellence category. The reform introduces a more coordinated and evidence-based approach to spectrum management, aimed at improving connectivity and service quality, supporting next-generation telecommunications and facilitating greater investment in the digital economy.
Pakistan’s achievement is particularly significant as Pakistan was the only CTO member state among the organization’s 56 members to secure finalist nominations in three entries and receive recognition for all three across two major award categories.
Commenting on the achievement, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated:
Pakistan’s recognition across three initiatives at the CTO Digital Excellence Awards is a proud moment for the nation. It reflects the dedication and hard work of institutions across Pakistan in advancing the Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of a Digital Pakistan that is inclusive, innovative and empowered by technology.
She further said:
The focus remains on translating technology into meaningful opportunities for our youth, more accessible public services for citizens, improved connectivity and a more competitive digital economy. These recognitions reaffirm that Pakistan’s digital transformation is gaining momentum as our efforts are being recognized on international platforms.
The CTO Digital Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding digital initiatives that demonstrate impact, innovation and leadership in advancing digital transformation, while promoting knowledge sharing and inclusive digital development across the Commonwealth.
