pkSIG Celebrates 10 Years of Internet Governance Education
Introduction to pkSIG’s Journey
Established in 2015, the Pakistan School on Internet Governance (pkSIG) marks its 10th edition this year. As the first national school on Internet Governance in the Asia-Pacific region, pkSIG has set a significant precedent, influencing the creation of similar institutions globally. The inspiration behind pkSIG stemmed from regional initiatives such as the Asia-Pacific School on Internet Governance (APSIG), and its success has spurred the establishment of national schools in other countries, such as India’s inSIG in 2016.
The Genesis of pkSIG
The idea of pkSIG was born during Pakistan’s ‘internet boom’ following the launch of 3G services. Visionaries in the field recognized the need for Pakistanis to engage more actively in the global multi-stakeholder model of Internet Governance. The main objective was to create awareness and develop the next generation of Internet leaders in Pakistan. Renowned educationist Dr. Arshad Ali led the first 4-day pkSIG event, hosted by the Higher Education Commission.
What is Pakistan School on Internet Governance (pkSIG)?
pkSIG is a 3 to 4-day educational event featuring talks, lectures, and workshops by leading national and international experts. Topics covered include the Internet governance ecosystem, I* organizations, cybersecurity, cyber laws, internet standards, privacy, digital transformation, and more. The event also includes role-plays and debates to enhance understanding.
Free Participation and Fellowships
pkSIG offers free participation to fifty individuals from diverse backgrounds, mainly university students and young professionals. Participants come from civil society, academia, government, technical communities, and private sectors. Additionally, ten to twelve deserving students from local communities, particularly from outside the host city, are awarded fellowships covering accommodation and transport.
Post-pkSIG Opportunities
Upon completion, participants are informed about further learning opportunities through fellowships and grants from international organizations. Successful participants also receive certificates of attendance, provided they attended all sessions.
A Decade of pkSIG: A Historical Overview
Early Years and Growth
The first pkSIG event was held in 2015 at the Higher Education Commission in Islamabad. A steering committee of volunteers subsequently took over the organization of future events, beginning with the Virtual University Lahore in 2016.
Locations of pkSIG Events
2015 – Higher Education Commission, Islamabad
2016 – Virtual University, Lahore
2017 – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa IT Board, Peshawar
2018 – Regent Plaza, Karachi
2019 – National Incubation Center, Quetta
2020 – Online due to the pandemic
2021 – Online due to the pandemic
2022 – Pearl Continental, Muzaffarabad
2023 – Ramada, Gilgit
2024 – Ramada, Multan
Highlights from the 2024 Event
The 10th pkSIG, held in Multan, received an overwhelming response with over 250 applications, from which 50 were selected, including 11 fellows. Among the fellows, four were female, including one visually impaired participant who inspired everyone with her enthusiasm.
Noteworthy Sessions
A showcase session featured founders of prominent digital businesses from Multan, including Scentyou.pk, epiccraftings.com, and giftmixservices.com, sharing their entrepreneurial journeys.
Impact and Achievements
In its ten editions, pkSIG has trained nearly 350 students, with an average of 26% female participation. While this number reflects the gender digital divide in Pakistan, events in remote cities like Quetta (2019) and Gilgit (2023) saw higher female participation rates of 38% and 33%, respectively.
Long-Term Contributions
pkSIG has equipped a vibrant set of youth with essential knowledge and skills, inspiring them to actively contribute to regional and global discussions on Internet governance.
The Backbone of pkSIG
Organizational Support
Gratitude is extended to various organizations that have supported pkSIG, including PTA, MoIT, ICANN, ISOC Foundation, Asia-Pacific Network Information Center (APNIC), and local ISPs, among others.
Steering Committee
The dedication of the steering committee members, who volunteer their time outside their regular jobs, has been instrumental. Key members include Waqas Hassan, Ahmed Bakhat, Mohammad Adil Ali, Umaira Rana, Ameena Sohail, and Dr. Mohammad Shabbir, with special mentions to Dr. Mukaram Khan and Fouad Bajwa.
Looking Forward: The Future of pkSIG
pkSIG remains committed to delivering high-quality education to Pakistan’s youth, preparing them to navigate and adapt to the evolving landscape of Internet governance. The organization looks forward to the next ten years with excitement and commitment.
FAQs
1. What is the primary objective of pkSIG?
The primary objective of pkSIG is to create awareness about the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance and to develop the next generation of Internet leaders in Pakistan.
2. Who can participate in pkSIG?
Participation is open to university students and young professionals from civil society, academia, government, technical communities, and private sectors who are interested in Internet governance.
3. Are there any costs associated with attending pkSIG?
No, participation in pkSIG is free of cost. Additionally, fellowships covering accommodation and transport are available for deserving students from local communities.
4. What topics are covered in pkSIG?
Topics include the Internet governance ecosystem, cybersecurity, cyber laws, Internet standards, privacy, digital transformation, and more.
5. What post-event opportunities are available for pkSIG participants?
Participants are informed about further learning opportunities, including fellowships and grants from various international organizations
