APT Symposium on Digital Transformation and the Universal Service Fund
13 October 2026 - 15 October 2026
Islamabad, Pakistan
APT Symposium Advances Inclusive Digital Transformation through Universal Service Funds
The Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) brought together 128 participants for the APT Symposium on Digital Transformation and the Universal Service Fund in Islamabad, Pakistan. Jointly hosted by Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Pakistan and Universal Service Fund Pakistan, the event provided platform to discuss and explore new technologies, policies, and financing models that will ensure that digital transformation becomes sustainable, inclusive and equitable for all in Asia-Pacific taking into account the roles of the Universal Service Fund (USF) in digital transformation.
The Symposium highlighted the priorities that had been identified in the Tokyo Statement 2025 and how USF can play important roles in fulfilling the efforts that has been committed in the Tokyo Statement 2026 for sustainable, inclusive and equitable digital transformation in the Asia-Pacific. Several themed sessions were organized on
- redefine the scopes of Universal Service for sustainable, inclusive and equitable digital transformation;
- financing and regulation for affordable access;
- governance of USF and funding models;
- bridge gender digital divide;
- local content development;
- explore how technology evolution can be harnessed strategically to advance inclusive digital transformation.
Welcome addresses were delivered by Dr. Masanori Kondo, Secretary General of the APT, and Mr. Chaudhary Mudassar Naveed, CEO of USF Pakistan. Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of IT and Telecom, Pakistan, delivered the inaugural address.
Participating APT members shared experiences and showcased approaches combining fibre, mobile broadband, satellite connectivity, renewable energy and community-led initiatives to reach rural and underserved areas. Speakers emphasized tailoring solutions to local needs and measuring success through service quality, sustained use, and practical benefits.
Financing and governance of USF discussions examined transparent fund management, diversified funding, competitive procurement, and payments linked to verified delivery. Participants also explored smartphone financing, targeted subsidies and public–private partnerships to improve affordability while supporting sustainable service provision.
Bridging the gender digital divide was a prominent theme. Speakers highlighted affordable personal devices, safe access, digital literacy, trusted community spaces, and opportunities for women’s employment and entrepreneurship. Discussions also stressed the importance of local-language content, accessible digital services, and online safety in enabling wider participation.
Looking ahead, the Symposium examined readiness for artificial intelligence, cloud computing and next-generation networks, emphasizing adaptive regulation, cybersecurity, and stronger institutional and workforce capabilities.
Highlighting the Symposium as an example of multi-stakeholder cooperation and collaboration to address the challenges of digital transformation that has been committed in Tokyo Statement 2025, Dr. Kondo encouraged continued practical cooperation through the APT that would contribute collectively to develop the Strategic Plan of the APT for 2027–2029. Participants were encouraged to enhance their efforts to fulfill the commitment of the Tokyo Statement 2025.
Invitation Letter
Invitation LetterInformation for Participants
