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Adamjee Life launches digital insurance app to enhance customer experience

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Adamjee Life launches digital insurance app to enhance customer experience

LAHORE, June 09 (ABC): Adamjee Life Assurance Company Limited has launched a mobile application that enables customers to access insurance services, make payments and submit claims through a digital self-service platform.

The application, named Adamjee Life Digital, is available on both Android and iOS devices and forms part of the company’s strategy to expand digital access to insurance services in Pakistan.

According to the company, the platform allows policyholders to view policy information, pay premiums online, file claims electronically, access policy documents and monitor fund performance through a single interface.

The app also enables customers to book appointments, receive policy updates and provide feedback directly through the platform.

For prospective customers, Adamjee Life Digital provides access to information on insurance and Takaful products, financial planning tools and online enrolment facilities.

Speaking about the launch, Athar Chaudhry, Director Information Solutions and Technologies at Adamjee Life, said the application was developed to provide customers with greater control over managing their insurance needs through digital channels.

He said the platform is supported by the company’s ISO 27001:2022-certified information security framework to safeguard customer data.

The company said eligible Gold and Platinum customers will also be able to access Orbis Rewards, its customer loyalty programme offering benefits across health, lifestyle and education services.

Industry observers say digital platforms are becoming increasingly important for Pakistan’s insurance sector as companies seek to improve customer engagement, reduce processing times and expand access to financial protection services through mobile technology.

With the launch of Adamjee Life Digital, the company joins a growing number of financial institutions investing in digital channels to streamline service delivery and enhance customer convenience.

Over 2,300 children enrolled in Islamabad as enrolment drive gains momentum

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Over 2,300 children enrolled in Islamabad as enrolment drive gains momentum

ISLAMABAD, June 08 (ABC): Islamabad has enrolled 2,328 out-of-school children under a nationwide education initiative, marking early progress in efforts to expand access to education across the federal capital.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training launched the programme in March 2026. The initiative aims to identify, enrol and retain out-of-school children in formal and non-formal education institutions across Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).

Survey identifies over 22,000 out-of-school children

According to the documents, a door-to-door survey has identified 22,057 out-of-school children across ICT. So far, authorities have enrolled 2,328 children. Meanwhile, teams continue efforts to bring the remaining identified children into the education system.

The campaign follows a union council-wise strategy. It combines household surveys, community mobilisation and real-time monitoring. As a result, officials can track enrolment progress more effectively.

Survey work has been completed in 31 union councils. In addition, field teams continue activities in five more councils. The first phase covers 36 rural union councils out of ICT’s 50 union councils during April-June 2026.

Focus on children aged five to 16 years

The programme primarily targets children between five and 16 years of age. Furthermore, authorities aim to enrol 25,000 out-of-school children during the first phase.

To achieve this goal, officials are prioritising admissions in schools operating under the Federal Directorate of Education. At the same time, non-formal education centres and community schools are supporting enrolment efforts in underserved areas.

Moreover, some children are being referred to the Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority for admission to private schools.

Learning support and trained teachers

Authorities are providing school supplies, uniforms, teaching materials and learning kits to newly enrolled students. Consequently, children can transition into the education system more smoothly.

The documents also show that more than 1,100 qualified individuals have been engaged as teachers. In addition, these teachers have received comprehensive training to improve learning outcomes.

Data collected through the campaign is being integrated into the Non-Formal Education Management Information System. This online platform helps authorities track identified children and monitor enrolment progress.

Multi-stakeholder effort to expand education access

The initiative brings together several stakeholders. These include the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, the National Commission for Human Development, Basic Education Community Schools, the National Education Foundation, non-governmental organisations, the Pakistan Institute of Education and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Going forward, the next phase will focus on accelerating enrolment, completing surveys in the remaining union councils and strengthening coordination among education providers. Additionally, authorities plan to establish stronger retention mechanisms to ensure that enrolled children continue their education.

NAVTTC trains 2,000 youth in AI and cloud computing

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NAVTTC trains 2,000 youth in AI and cloud computing

ISLAMABAD, June 07 (ABC): The National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) has trained 2,000 youth in artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. Moreover, 1,703 participants earned international certifications, while 70% secured employment under the programme.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, NAVTTC launched the initiative in partnership with Huawei. The programme focused on cloud tech essentials, cloud architecture and AI fundamentals. As a result, participants gained skills aligned with global technology trends.

Certification success highlights programme impact

The documents show that 2,000 participants completed training through CyberVision, Corvit and the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore.

Out of the total trainees, 1,703 obtained international certifications. Consequently, the programme achieved a certification pass rate of 85.15%.

In addition, authorities completed all international certification requirements. They also finalized placement verification for graduates.

Employment outcomes exceed expectations

The programme recorded an employment rate of 70%. Furthermore, graduates reported an average monthly income of Rs87,298.

NAVTTC designed the pilot project with employability as a key objective. Therefore, it targeted job placement rates ranging from 60% to 80%.

At the same time, the programme combined technical instruction with soft-skills development. This approach improved workplace readiness and enhanced career prospects for participants.

Digital skills drive economic opportunities

The successful pilot phase has created momentum for the next training batch. Accordingly, NAVTTC has already placed a new phase of training in the pipeline.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital workforce. It also aims to equip youth with globally recognised technology credentials.

Moreover, the programme supports the country’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy. As demand for digital expertise continues to rise, such initiatives are becoming increasingly important.

The strong certification and employment results highlight the effectiveness of public-private partnerships. In particular, they demonstrate how collaboration can help address skills gaps in cloud computing, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

$1.64bn Landhi–Rohri ML-1 upgrade gains momentum

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$1.64bn Landhi–Rohri ML-1 upgrade gains momentum

ISLAMABAD, June 7 (ABC): Pakistan Railways (PR) is accelerating work on the $1.639 billion upgrade of the Landhi–Rohri section of Main Line-1 (ML-1), with groundbreaking planned for October 2026.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the 450-kilometre corridor will undergo major modernization. The project includes the rehabilitation of 32 railway stations and 551 bridges and culverts. It will also introduce advanced signaling systems, including Auto Block Signaling and Centralized Block Interlocking (CBI), to improve safety and operational efficiency.

Key project milestones

The documents show that Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS) surveys and planning activities will conclude by August 2026. Pakistan Railways and project consultants will complete design reviews, while the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is expected to approve environmental and social plans by December 2026.

The project team aims to complete several preparatory activities before construction begins. These include contractor procurement, retroactive financing arrangements and final project approvals.

Infrastructure and safety improvements

The upgrade also includes the improvement and grade separation of level crossings between Landhi and Hyderabad. Authorities are conducting climate risk assessments and implementing environmental and social safeguard measures. The project also covers land acquisition and resettlement activities where required.

These interventions will help improve railway safety, reduce operational bottlenecks and strengthen the resilience of the rail network.

Boosting freight and passenger capacity

The Landhi–Rohri upgrade is a key component of Pakistan’s broader railway modernization strategy. Once completed, it will increase freight and passenger carrying capacity between Karachi and the rest of the country.

The project is expected to reduce travel times, improve logistics performance and support stronger regional connectivity. It will also help facilitate trade and contribute to long-term economic growth by enhancing the efficiency of the national transport system.

QGDC, Huawei Pakistan partner to develop Pakistan’s largest Tier III data centre

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QGDC, Huawei Pakistan partner to develop Pakistan’s largest Tier III data centre

KARACHI, June 5 (ABC): Quantum Global Data Center (QGDC) and Huawei Pakistan signed a strategic partnership agreement during The Q Summit in Karachi, marking a major milestone in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey.

The collaboration will support the development of Pakistan’s largest Tier III Data Center alongside a state-of-the-art Science and Technology Park, strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystem.

Hosted by QGDC in collaboration with Huawei Pakistan, The Q Summit brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, investors, technology experts and enterprise stakeholders to discuss the future of digital infrastructure, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation in Pakistan.

The project will establish Pakistan’s largest Tier III Data Center, designed to provide highly resilient, secure and scalable digital infrastructure capable of supporting cloud computing, AI workloads, high-performance computing, digital finance, e-government services and other emerging technology applications.

The initiative aims to enhance local hosting capabilities, strengthen data sovereignty and accelerate the adoption of advanced digital services across both the public and private sectors.

The partnership agreement was signed by QGDC Chief Operating Officer Ubaid Amanullah and Huawei Pakistan CEO AI & Cloud Business Ahmed Bilal Masud, underscoring the shared commitment of industry stakeholders to advancing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and innovation landscape.

The event was attended by senior representatives from the Government of Sindh, including Sindh Minister for Science and Information Technology Ali Rashid, who attended as the chief guest, alongside leaders from the banking, telecommunications, technology and enterprise sectors.

During the event, Huawei executives highlighted the growing importance of robust digital infrastructure as the foundation for AI-driven innovation and economic growth.

Huawei also shared its global experience in cloud and digital transformation, noting that Huawei Cloud serves customers in more than 170 countries and regions through a comprehensive portfolio of cloud services and availability zones worldwide.

A key focus of the discussions was Huawei Cloud Stack, Huawei’s sovereign cloud solution that enables governments, financial institutions, telecom operators and critical infrastructure organisations to deploy cloud capabilities while maintaining full control over data, security, compliance and operations.

Both organisations emphasised that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting Pakistan’s long-term digital ambitions through secure, scalable and future-ready technology infrastructure.

Speaking at the ceremony, QGDC Chairman Danish Iqbal said the collaboration with Huawei represented a transformative step for Pakistan’s digital future.

“Through the development of Pakistan’s largest Tier III Data Center and a world-class Science and Technology Park, we are creating the foundation for innovation, economic growth and technological advancement. The project will strengthen national capabilities, attract investment and support Pakistan’s emergence as a competitive digital economy,” he said.

Ahmed Bilal Masud said Pakistan stood at the threshold of a new digital era and that AI innovation required strong digital foundations.

“When modern data centres, high-performance computing, secure cloud platforms and trusted digital infrastructure come together, they unlock new opportunities for businesses, governments and society. We are proud to work alongside QGDC in supporting the development of Pakistan’s largest Tier III Data Center and advancing the country’s digital transformation journey,” he said.

The partnership represents a significant step towards building a robust digital ecosystem capable of supporting the country’s growing demand for cloud services, AI applications, digital public services and next-generation technologies while fostering innovation, investment and sustainable economic development.

Addressing the summit, Ali Rashid reaffirmed the Government of Sindh’s commitment to the Karachi Technopolis and Quantum Global Data Center project in collaboration with Huawei.

He said the initiatives would help establish a core digital ecosystem in Karachi and pioneer advanced data centre and technology infrastructure in Pakistan.

Highlighting the growing importance of data and information technology, the minister assured the government’s continued support for the project and its long-term vision.

ڈگری سے زیادہ اہم کیا ہے

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ڈگری سے زیادہ اہم کیا ہے

Balochistan’s summer challenge

Zahid Dilwash
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Balochistan’s summer challenge

Zahid Dilwash

As temperatures rise across Pakistan, summer brings more than discomfort. For many people in Balochistan, it brings hardship, uncertainty and daily struggle. Extreme heat affects the entire country, but people in underdeveloped regions often face greater difficulties because they lack adequate services and economic opportunities.

Why students and workers suffer most

Students face some of the toughest challenges during the summer months. Summer vacations should offer time for rest, learning and personal development. However, many students in Balochistan struggle with financial pressures, limited educational facilities and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges affect both their studies and future prospects.

The situation is equally difficult for workers. Thousands of labourers, daily wage earners and job seekers travel long distances under the scorching sun to earn a living. Many families depend on a single income source and struggle to meet basic needs. Extreme temperatures make their daily efforts even more difficult.

A province rich in potential

Balochistan holds a unique position in Pakistan. It is the country’s largest province by area and possesses abundant natural resources. Its mineral wealth, strategic location and energy reserves can contribute significantly to national development.

Despite these advantages, many parts of the province continue to face serious development challenges. Large sections of the population still lack access to opportunities that could improve their quality of life and strengthen the local economy.

Development challenges remain

Unemployment remains one of the province’s most pressing concerns. Many young people struggle to find meaningful jobs and often feel uncertain about their future. Infrastructure gaps add to these difficulties.

Many areas need better roads and stronger communication networks. Access to quality healthcare also remains limited in several districts. Residents of remote communities often travel long distances to receive basic medical treatment. These shortcomings slow economic activity and affect everyday life.

The need for equal opportunities

Many residents believe they do not receive the same opportunities available in other parts of the country. Whether these concerns are real or perceived, policymakers should address them seriously. Inclusive development strengthens national unity and promotes long-term stability.

The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees fundamental rights to every citizen. Article 9 protects the right to life and security. These guarantees place a responsibility on the state to ensure that citizens can live with dignity, safety and access to essential services.

A shared responsibility for the future

The future of Balochistan is closely linked to the future of Pakistan. A prosperous Balochistan can strengthen the national economy, improve regional connectivity and contribute to overall stability. Investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and employment can unlock the province’s vast potential.

Climate change has intensified heatwaves across Pakistan. Policymakers must therefore pay greater attention to vulnerable regions such as Balochistan. Authorities should address immediate challenges while also pursuing long-term development goals.

The people of Balochistan have shown resilience despite numerous hardships. With sustained investment, equal opportunities and effective governance, the province can become a powerful driver of Pakistan’s future growth and prosperity. Achieving this goal requires cooperation, unity and a commitment to ensuring that no region is left behind.

About the writer: Zahid Dilwash is a resident of Tump Zamoran Bazaar, Balochistan. He writes on social, educational and development issues affecting local communities and advocates inclusive growth and equal opportunities for all citizens.

OGDCL adds 11 wells, 9,734 BPD oil output in FY2025-26

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OGDCL adds 11 wells, 9,734 BPD oil output in FY2025-26

ISLAMABAD, June 4 (APP): The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) brought 11 wells into production during the first 10 months of FY2025-26, adding 9,734 barrels per day (BPD) of oil and 74.25 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) of gas.

The latest additions represent the highest oil and gas production contribution from newly monetised wells during the four-year period covered by the company’s production records.

According to official data available with Wealth Pakistan, OGDCL continued its efforts to bring discovered hydrocarbon resources into production through timely development and monetisation of fields across Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Balochistan.

The year-wise data show that OGDCL brought five wells into production during FY2022-23. These wells contributed 990 BPD of oil and 18.28 MMSCFD of gas. Four of the wells were located in Sindh and one in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In FY2023-24, the company brought 11 wells online, adding 4,398 BPD of oil and 43.23 MMSCFD of gas. Of these, seven wells were located in Sindh, three in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and one in Balochistan.

During FY2024-25, OGDCL connected eight wells to the production system. The wells contributed 744 BPD of oil and 41.80 MMSCFD of gas. The province-wise distribution included five wells in Sindh, one in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and two in Balochistan.

The documents further show that during FY2025-26 up to April, OGDCL brought 11 wells into production, matching the number recorded in FY2023-24. These wells contributed 9,734 BPD of oil and 74.25 MMSCFD of gas. Six of the wells were located in Sindh, two in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, one in Punjab and two in Balochistan.

Based on the year-wise figures provided in the official records, OGDCL brought a total of 35 wells into production during the four fiscal years from FY2022-23 to FY2025-26 (up to April). The cumulative contribution from these wells reached 15,866 BPD of oil and 177.56 MMSCFD of gas.

The data indicate a significant increase in production contribution from newly monetised wells during the current fiscal year, particularly in oil output, reflecting the performance of the latest additions brought into production.

سی پیک: خیبر پختونخوا میں ترقی کی ایک نئی کہانی

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سی پیک: خیبر پختونخوا میں ترقی کی ایک نئی کہانی

Pakistan eyes $1.5bn export boost through Rs983m lab upgrade project

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Pakistan eyes $1.5bn export boost through Rs983m lab upgrade project

ISLAMABAD, June 3 (ABC): The Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR) will launch a Rs983.35 million project to modernise testing laboratories for agricultural products. The initiative aims to improve quality assurance and strengthen Pakistan’s export competitiveness.

According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, PCSIR will implement the project from 2026 to 2028 under the Ministry of Science and Technology.

The project focuses on establishing advanced testing facilities for pesticide residues, aflatoxins, heavy metals and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). These facilities will help exporters meet international food safety requirements and access high-value markets.

Upgrading laboratories across Pakistan

PCSIR will upgrade laboratories in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta. The modernised facilities will expand testing and certification services for agricultural exporters.

The upgraded laboratories will support exports to the European Union, the United States and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Exporters often need internationally recognised testing reports before shipping products to these markets.

The project team expects the initiative to increase agricultural exports by 20% annually. Officials estimate that it could generate an additional $1.5 billion in export earnings every year.

More than 1,000 exporters and farmers are likely to benefit from the improved services. Better testing facilities can also help reduce export rejections caused by contamination or quality issues.

Introducing modern testing technologies

PCSIR plans to install High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) systems in the laboratories.

The organisation will also introduce Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technologies for biological screening.

These systems can identify contaminants more accurately and quickly. They will help exporters comply with the standards set by international buyers and regulators.

Achieving international accreditation

PCSIR will align laboratory operations with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards. These standards serve as a global benchmark for testing and calibration laboratories.

International accreditation will improve the credibility and reliability of laboratory results. It will also increase confidence among foreign importers and regulatory authorities.

The project supports Pakistan’s broader strategy to modernise scientific infrastructure and promote value-added agricultural exports.

Strengthening export competitiveness

Global demand for safe, traceable and high-quality food products continues to rise. Pakistan aims to strengthen its position in international markets by improving testing and certification systems.

Officials believe the upgraded laboratories will provide exporters with reliable and internationally accepted testing services. This support can help Pakistan expand agricultural exports and improve access to premium markets.

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