Pakistan has announced a large-scale push toward digital education with plans to distribute 700,000 Google Chromebooks to students across the country. The initiative, part of broader education reforms planned for 2025, aims to modernise classrooms, narrow the digital divide and equip young people with skills needed in a technology-driven economy.
Government confirms nationwide Chromebook rollout
The government has formally confirmed that the devices will be provided under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the programme, said the move reflects a strong commitment to integrating technology into education.
The distribution will cover students enrolled in public schools, colleges and universities across all provinces, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Officials say the scale of the programme makes it one of the largest education technology initiatives undertaken in Pakistan.
Why the government is providing Chromebooks to students
Pakistan’s education sector has long struggled with unequal access to learning resources, particularly between urban and rural areas. By supplying Chromebooks, the government hopes to support online, remote and blended learning models, while giving students access to cloud-based academic tools.
Education officials believe the use of Chromebooks will help students build digital literacy, become familiar with modern learning platforms and develop skills that align with global academic and employment standards.
What makes Chromebooks suitable for education
Chromebooks are widely used in schools and universities around the world due to their simplicity and low maintenance. They are designed for education-focused tasks, offering quick start-up times, built-in security updates, long battery life and seamless integration with Google Workspace tools such as Docs, Sheets and Slides.
Their cloud-based system allows students to access coursework and assignments from anywhere, reducing reliance on physical textbooks and traditional computer labs.
Who is expected to receive the devices
While final eligibility criteria are still being finalised, officials indicate that priority will likely be given to students enrolled in government institutions. Selection is expected to be based on a mix of merit and need, along with the digital readiness of institutions.
Phased distribution and monitoring plans
The Chromebook rollout will take place in phases to ensure transparency and effective oversight. Authorities say a national monitoring system will be used to track distribution, usage and educational outcomes, helping assess the programme’s long-term impact.
Addressing the digital divide
A key objective of the initiative is to reduce disparities between urban and rural education. Students in remote and underserved areas are expected to benefit from improved access to digital learning resources, online classes and national education platforms.
Officials describe the programme as a step toward more inclusive education, giving students across the country similar tools and opportunities.
Overseas support and education investment
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan has also pointed to growing confidence among overseas Pakistanis, which he says is contributing to increased investment in education, skills development and technology-related sectors. This external support is seen as reinforcing Pakistan’s long-term education strategy.
How the initiative fits into the 2025 education vision
The Chromebook distribution aligns with national goals under the Digital Pakistan Vision and broader youth empowerment plans. It complements other initiatives, including teacher training, e-learning platforms and free certification programmes aimed at preparing students for a digital future.
Challenges and planned solutions
Officials acknowledge potential challenges, such as limited internet access in remote regions, the need for teacher training and long-term device maintenance. To address these issues, the government plans institutional readiness assessments, phased implementation and ongoing monitoring to ensure the programme delivers lasting benefits.
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