ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Science and Technology (S&T) is seeking a waiver from the Public Procurement and Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules to allow the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to procure electronic voting machines (EVMs).

“The Election Commission has asked for the manufacture of 3,900 machines for the local bodies elections in Islamabad. The Election Commission is also not conducting tenders because the PPRA rules are getting in the way,” Minister of Science and Technology Shibli Faraz said during an interactive session with media on Wednesday.

Mr Faraz informed the press that his office had contacted the Prime Minister’s Office and the Cabinet Division for guidance to proceed.

Explaining that the tendering process was time consuming, the minister said the government and the ECP wanted local bodies elections in Islamabad to be held through EVMs, adding that the prototype had been developed according to ECP’s specifications.

“We want all elections in two years to be held through EVMs; use of technology will speak for itself in the local bodies elections in Islamabad,” he said.

Responding to a question, Shibli Faraz said it had come to light that the ECP wanted Punjab elections through electronic voting machines.

“The Election Commission has only informed us about the elections in Islamabad. This will be an electoral activity before the general elections, which will determine the performance of the machine,” he said, adding that it would be a historic occasion as “we are moving out of an outdated system”.

During the interactive session, the federal minister highlighted the role that science and technology played in the economy and the betterment of the country.

Mr Faraz emphasised that his office was using all capabilities to fulfill responsibilities and was paving the way towards technological innovation and prosperity.

One of the main areas of discussion was the approval of the National Science and Technology Innovation Policy by the cabinet on Tuesday.

“National Science Technology and Innovation Policy will provide a master plan and guiding light. This policy will provide alignment, cohesion and harmony among all science and technology-related activities and initiatives in the country,” the minister said.

He also highlighted the initiatives taken by the ministry and timelines achieved so far.

The updates on pertinent programmes like STEM and HEMP were shared.

Future plans about the launch of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) for primary level students was discussed, which would contribute towards cognitive development of students.

Published in Dawn, January 13th, 2022