Islamabad (GNP): The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Google signed a memorandum of understanding on Thursday aimed at strengthening children’s online safety across the country, marking a fresh step in efforts to build digital protections for young internet users.
A press release issued by the authority said the agreement is designed to strengthen awareness, digital safety and responsible use of online platforms among children, parents, teachers and caregivers throughout Pakistan.
Under the partnership, PTA and Google will work together on a child safety programme centred on awareness, education and capacity-building, to equip parents and teachers with practical tools and resources to help children navigate the digital world safely.
The programme’s key initiatives include developing awareness content in English and local languages, conducting training sessions in educational institutions, and supporting a nationwide outreach campaign intended to connect millions of families with localised online safety resources and tutorials.
PTA Chairman (retd) Maj Gen Hafeezur Rehman spoke at the signing, underscoring the need for coordinated action among stakeholders to protect children in an increasingly digital environment. Says Rehman, the initiative reflects the “importance of collective efforts and stakeholder collaboration to protect children in an increasingly digital environment.”
Dr Khawar Siddique, a member of the authority’s compliance and enforcement team, echoed this focus on digital literacy. Says Siddique, the collaboration highlights the “importance of promoting digital literacy and responsible use of online platforms to promote a safer digital environment for children and families” in Pakistan.
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The statement concluded that the partnership reflects a shared commitment between PTA and Google to empowering parents and teachers while enhancing digital awareness nationwide.
The agreement follows closely on Google’s inauguration of its local office in Pakistan on Tuesday, nearly four years after the company first registered in the country, a development it described as a significant milestone in its engagement with Pakistan.
A day later, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry met with a Google delegation and called for enhanced cooperation to promote a safe and peaceful digital environment, stressing the importance of proactive social media monitoring in view of the country’s security challenges.
Taken together, the office launch, ministerial engagement and now the PTA-Google agreement point to a broader push to deepen Google’s institutional presence and cooperation with Pakistani authorities on digital safety.
Managing Editor at Global News Pakistan (GNP), with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Riphah International University, graduated with a Gold Medal. Reach out at sabahtareengnp@gmail.com
