Mobilink becomes First Telco in the World to Launch Facebook at Work

In a move to increase efficiency and collaboration amongst employees spread across the country and ensure communication can become more efficient, Mobilink has become the first Telco in the world to launch Facebook at Work, the business version of Facebook that allows companies to build more productive, efficient and collaborative workplaces.    
The enterprise service shares a similar look and feel to the personal Facebook network but is completely separate from the consumer Facebook service.The service also has built in enterprise-grade security and administration tools.    
“As we move towards digitalization, Facebook at Work will serve as a platform which will not only connect our employees better but will also serve as an informal platform for information sharing. I am confident that the use of Facebook at Work will enhance our ability to communicate more effectively and help develop a better integrated Mobilink family,” said Jeffrey Hedberg, President and CEO - Mobilink.
“Facebook at Work has not only increased employee engagement, but has removed typical line management and hierarchical barriers to communication. It has also improved two-way communications and reduced outbound email traffic,” added Ehtisham Rao, Head of Digital Services - Mobilink.
With many of Mobilink’s employees already using the consumer version of Facebook, adoption of Facebook at Work throughout the organization was a simple process for Mobilink’s HR and Digital teams. The Telco initiated various creative engagement activities i.e. a Dubsmash Competition, Knowledge Share, and other similar activities to promote the use of the enterprise service amongst employees.
“In Facebook at Work, we have a tool which allows us to further embed our work culture across the organization,” said Asghar Jameel, Chief Human Resource Officer - Mobilink. “We want to derive an open, collaborative and non-hierarchical culture through the utilization where teams can communicate, share and solve problems in ways that traditional tools cannot.”  
Facebook at Work looks and feels the same as the Facebook that we use every day. The key difference is that it allows workers to create an additional work account that is separate from their own personal Facebook account. It uses familiar Facebook features like the news feed, groups, messages, and events, but has been designed purely for sharing content and collaborating with co-workers to build a more connected and productive workplace.   

Read More

INFINIX ZERO 3 SET TO MAKE WAVES WITH A 20.7MP CAMERA

Daraz and Infinix collaborate once more to make a difference for smartphone users

Infinix Mobility has yet again proven that innovation and top-notch quality can be afforded at an incredibly low price by launching their flagship phone, Infinix Zero 3, exclusively on Daraz.pk at https://www.daraz.pk/infinix-zero3. TheInfinix Zero 3 is revolutionizing perceptions of the modern smartphone user with an incredible 20.7 megapixel Sony camera, making the concept of high quality professional photography from a lean, sexy device a cemented reality.

This phone is a significant upgrade on its previous model, the Infinix Zero 2 - the high quality metal casing is evident of the quality of the product’s exterior and housing. The device is durable and has an elegantly stylish look, offered in two color variants, black and gold. Boasting a 5.5inch FHD Display with a whopping 1080 x 1920 pixel resolution, the phone allows users to have a display perfect for high resolution games, watching videos or just being in awe of the high-quality screen display.

The Infinix Zero 3 is known for its high speed operating capabilities, powered by a 3GB RAM and a 2.1GHz octa-core processor. The 4G LTE enabled, dual-sim phone is available in 16GB and 32GB models, as well as a 128GB external memory, giving you ample space for a plethora of applications, songs, videos and pictures.

Infinix has crossed leagues to ensure incredible camera quality by installing Sony’s Exmor RS IM X230 20.7MP rear camera. The picture quality not only surpasses that of most leading smartphones today, rather, it has gone head-to-head with a DSLR camera. To sweep the picture and video enthusiasts off of their feet, Infinix has installed dual color LED flashlight for the camera, as well as 4K video capturing, enabling users to make ultra-high-definition videos anywhere, anytime.

Keeping up with the age of selfies, the 5MP front camera is complemented by a front-facing LED flashlight, vanquishing your selfie nightmares. Now users can take selfies in dim lighting and outdoors during nighttime without a hitch.

Common concerns with smartphones of such high capabilities is the battery life or the lack thereof that plagues most consumers with high smartphone usage. The Infinix Zero 3 is armed with a 3030mAH Li-Po battery which means that battery draining issues are a notion of the past.

Infinix, as most users need high speed data accessibility, has a dual-sim system with 3G/4G and LTE capabilities. The ease of use for consumers with such specs is significant and makes Infinix Zero 3 highly appealing for its quality and consumer ease to price ratio.

Read More

Pakistan offers ideal business opportunity for telecom sector: PM

Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has said that international business community’s confidence to invest in Pakistan has been restored due to the incentives-based transparent policies of the government. The Prime Minister said this while meeting Mr. Jean Yves Charlier, CEO - VimpelCom who called on him at PM House.

The Prime Minister said that the government’s clear policies have especially revolutionized the Telecom sector and successful launch of 3-G and 4-G in the recent past is a testimony to this. We are encouraging the telecom companies to expand their outreach to far-flung areas of the country so that majority of the masses benefit from the technology, added the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister said that Pakistan offers an ideal environment for telecom sector as the country has one of the largest cellular phone subscribers. Our government believes in open and transparent business policies so that both local and foreign investors are further motivated to explore the business opportunities in Pakistan.

Terming the Telecom industry of Pakistan promising and vibrant, Mr. Jean Yves Charlier appreciated the business friendly policies of the present government. The CEO VimpelCom said that teledensity in Pakistan is one of the highest in the region, which makes the country one of the favorite destinations for foreign investors.

The meeting was also attended by Ms. Anusha Rehman Khan, MOS for IT and other senior government officials.

Read More

Mobicash Partners With Cheezmall.Com to Simplify Online Shopping Experience

Mobicash has partnered with Cheezmall.com, the Chinese Online Shopping Portal in Pakistan to facilitate online shopping for making payments for purchases made through cheezmall.com. The service enables customers with most convenient and secure online payment options.
With the Chinese supplier base of more than 200,000 Cheezmall.com brings a new revolution of online shopping in Pakistan. Through these deals, products are available at extremely lower as a limited time offer. The portal operates in four major categories including Electronics, Home and Bedding, Appliances, Apparels and also some Automobile parts. The nerve center of this portal for Pakistan is located in Shanghai, China.  
Aniqa Afzal Sindhu, Head of Mobile Financial Services - Mobilink commenting on the partnership said, “The collaboration will provide customers with the utmost ease of shopping online along with the satisfaction of using a reliable and instant medium for payment. We at Mobicash continuously work to bring ease to our customer and this initiative is yet another step in fulfilling the needs of our customers.”
Speaking on this occasion Mr Aurangzeb Khan CEO Cheezmall.com stated, “The agreement will enable us to integrate into E-commerce market nationwide by introducing best customers solutions for online shoppers. Our product's quality and best customer service has assured 95% acceptance rate of the products because the products we are dealing in are not available anywhere with such a cost effective price and quality.”
To utilize this mobile financial service, Mobicash users can generate an order and pay by visiting Mobicash retail outlet or directly through their Mobile Accounts or credit / debit card.

Read More

Facilitation of humanitarian aid lands Glomo Awards nomination for Mobicash

Mobicash, a joint venture of Mobilink, Pakistan’s largest telecommunication service provider, and Waseela Microfinance Bank has been nominated for the esteemed GSMA’s GLOMO Awards 2016. Mobicash’s ‘Funds Disbursement for Humanitarian Aid’ is selected in the category of ‘Mobile in Emergency or Humanitarian Situations’.
Launched in 2012, Mobicash has become the fastest growing MFS provider in the country with more than 59,000 agents in 633 cities, towns and villages of Pakistan. It also deploys its services in regions hit by disasters and natural calamities. Various public & private organizations engage Mobicash in such projects. The ‘Funds Disbursement for Humanitarian Aid’ is aimed exclusively for assisting affectees of natural disasters and humanitarian crises. The service was first assigned by Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Oct’14 to distribute Punjab Government’s allocated funds in inaccessible areas to families affected by country’s worst ever flooding.  In the same year Pakistan army launched a military operation in North Waziristan to root out terrorism from the country. In relation to the aftermath of this military operation, thousands of residents were displaced & relocated to various areas across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. FATA Disaster Management Authority (FDMA) approached Mobicash in Feb’ 15 to assist in the disbursement of relocation & settlement allowances to temporarily displaced people (TDPs) across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Through this program, Mobicash showcased its ability of accessing areas labeled inaccessible by banks and other financial institutions, especially in the aftermath of these calamities. Funds were granted to beneficiaries on their mobile accounts with Mobicash sending daily data to the concerned parties for complete visibility of payments being received by the beneficiaries. The biometric based solution enabled Mobicash to ensure no doubling of payments occur, and negate fake claims to the relief funds. The transparency of the procedure ultimately increased credibility of the project. 
Jeffery Hedberg, CEO, Mobilink commented, “We are very pleased to represent Pakistan positively on an international level. The nomination has highlighted Mobilink’s continued dedication to Pakistan and is a great tribute to our team who are delivering in every way we can for our customers.”
While congratulating to all of the nominees for the 2016 GLOMO Awards, Michael O'Hara, Chief Marketing Officer, GSMA stated, "With more than 930 entries this year - a new record - the competition is greater than ever, reflecting the tremendous diversity and pace of innovation across the mobile world. We are particularly excited to be celebrating the 21st year of the awards with a dynamic new format that will recognize and honor achievement throughout Mobile World Congress.”

This year, 285 nominees have been shortlisted for more than 40 awards over eight categories. The event will be held on Feb 22-25 in Barcelona, Spain.

Read More

Mobilink Launches iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus

Following its initial announcement of an agreement with Apple for the launch of its iPhone 6sand iPhone 6s Plus in Pakistan through Mobilink, the telco has now announced that the much awaited smartphones are available at all Mobilink Business Centers across the country. The telco also announced that on purchase of every iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus, customers will get 12GB free internet for 12 months so they enjoy Pakistan’s best 3G experience on the best smartphone in the market today. 

The iPhone 6s is available in three different memory variants i.e. 16 GB, 64 GB, and 128 GB, which are available for PKR 79,999, PKR 96,500 and PKR 109,000 respectively. While iPhone 6s Plus is available in 16 GB and 64 GB for PKR 96,500 and PKR 109,000 respectively. 

Available with the same 4.7 and 5.5-inch Retina displays, the iPhone 6sand the iPhone 6s Plus have the same exterior design as the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, however the hardware and technology of the 6s and 6s plus have been thoroughly updated. The exterior body and screen has also been upgraded and is now stronger and more durable than any previous-generation iPhone. Other new features that stand out are the new second-generation Touch ID module that makes fingerprint detection twice as fast, and the introduction of the amazing 3D Touch that lets you do more than ever before by sensing how deeply you press the display, letting you do all kinds of essential things more quickly and simply. And with the all-new 12-megapixel iSight camera, and new features taking stunning photos and videos is an incredible experience.

Read More

Mobilink Honors Pakistan’s Number 1 Batsman

  Pakistan’s Number 1 Network, Mobilink pays tribute to Younus Khan

Mobilink recently paid tribute to Younus Khan, Pakistan’s Number One Test Batsman for becoming Pakistan’s highest test scorer. The legendary batsman was presented with a cheque along with a golden helmet by Mobilink’s Deputy CEO & CCO Aamir Ibrahim for crossing the 9000 runs mark by beating the record previously held by the legend Javed Miandad for more than two decades. The presentation took place in Dubai in a ceremony where Asif Aziz, VP Marketing - Mobilink and Shahbaz Maqsood Khan, Director Brands and Communications - Mobilink were also present. 

To celebrate Younus Khan’s historic milestone, Mobilink has also launched a comprehensive campaign that included a TVC, outdoor boards and digital activities. All Pakistanis and cricketing fans are encouraged to be part of this tribute by tweeting their comments on #wearenumber1. 

Mobilink believes that our local and national heroes need appreciation and continues to play its part in providing the people of Pakistan with a platform to support them. Speaking at the event Aamir Ibrahim, Deputy CEO & CCO said, “There is no doubt that Younus is one of the batting greats of the modern era. Responding best in what were the tough years for Pakistan cricket, Younus’ calm demeanor has allowed him to consistently do well for the country, especially when the team needs his presence on the crease most.  It is an honor to present this living legend a golden helmet, which signifies his position as the best batsman Pakistan has ever produced.”

Mobilink’s association with cricket has been special mainly because this sport ignites huge passion amongst the nation. Mobilink has always supported local talent by providing them with opportunities to hone their skills by collaborating with National Cricket Academy (NCA) to nurture future cricket heroes. Apart from similar initiatives, we continually promote our sporting legends and high achievers. Mobilink is also one of the leading sponsors of not just cricketing events, but other sports like Golf and Polo.

Read More

Mobilink Torchbearers take up Student Mentorship

Mobilink Foundation officially launched its ‘Teach to Transform’ (T2T) program by conducting a 90 mins mentorship session at Master Ayub’s Park School located at F-6, Islamabad. Under the program’s guidelines, Mobilink’s employee volunteers spent their time atthe school by providing teaching support to students who were struggling academically, and required additional tuition. Jeffrey Hedberg, CEO – Mobilink, was also part of the volunteer team and dedicated his time to a book reading activity with the students. The activity was concluded after the distribution of necessary course books, self-help reading materials and stationery amongst students. 

T2T is a student mentorship program that assigns Mobilink Torchbearers to under privileged schools across the country. Launched in 2013, it is yet another innovative corporate social responsibility initiative by the Mobilink Foundation. The pilot phase of the project was launched at the DSRA School in Karachi where 46 students benefited from the teaching assistance provided.

Commenting on this student mentorship program, Omar Manzur, Head of Corporate Communication - Mobilink stated, 

“Teach to Transform aims to academically assist students who are in need of slight guidance to remove their weaknesses, while also helping them realize the plethora of professional opportunities a sound education provides them with. For the past two years, we have expanded the reach of this initiative to impart education to students from deserving communities across Pakistan through our dedicated team of Torchbearers, and this year we will continue to expand its outreach.”

Following the initial success of this program, Mobilink has decided to include it in the annual CSR activities of the Mobilink Foundation. Through T2T, Mobilink Torchbearers tutor students in Math, English and Science, while also making them aware of the professional opportunities around them through higher education. Mobilink Foundation continues to work in the areas of education, environment and health to raise awareness, impart knowledge and contribute positively towards growth of the communities it operates within. 

Read More

Tracking your loved ones through MobiLocator

Mobilink’s latest location based service gives users the ability to keep a track on their friends and family, and nearby landmarks

Committed to providing simple and convenient solutions to its subscribers, Mobilink has revamped its location based service, MobiLocator. This service provides users with the ability to find their current location and location of their registered friends and family. Moreover this service allows customers to find the location of nearest restaurants/cafes, ATMs, Petrol Pumps etc. MobiLocator also has a scheduled SMS alert option, which enables users to track and record the location of their family members after pre-set time intervals.

With faster access and flexibility in mind, MobiLocator service has been shifted from SMS to USSD channel. All features of this service are now bundled under one umbrella which makes it easy for the customers as they would not need to send SMS request on different short codes. Previously customers had to pay different price for each feature every time they use the service for finding locations.

The price of the service is now changed to PKR 2.5+tax/week for prepaid and PKR 10+tax/month for postpaid. This enables customers the opportunity to pay once for the entire week or month and use all features without any additional cost.

Read More

Mobilink Receives WWF ‘Award Of Innovation

WWF Pakistan, in a latest honor recognizing the telco’s ongoing endeavors to protect the environment, conferred the ‘Award of Innovation’ to Mobilink at the third annual ‘WWF Green Office Network’ meeting. The award is in honor of Mobilink’s ongoing green sustainability initiatives, which target the telco’s industrial and corporate activities in a bid to cut down on consumption of electricity, paper, water and residual solid waste. Previously, Mobilink also received WWF’s Green Office Certification, only telco in the country to do so, for its corporate premises in Lahore and Islamabad after ensuring a 73% drop in the consumption levels of natural resources.    

Expressing his delight at receiving the award, Omar Manzur, Head of Corporate Communication - Mobilink said, "Mobilink's Corporate Responsibility function, not only, ensures that our employees are aware of environment-friendly practices and make efficient use of resources, but the corporation, as a whole, amalgamates this green philosophy with its corporate objectives. At Mobilink, we believe that global businesses are the only institutions strong enough to meet the huge long-term challenges facing our planet, thus we are willingly to strive harder to ensure our part is played out efficiently. The ‘Award of Innovation’ by WWF acts as an encouragement for our employees and ‘Green Office’ coordinators for all the good work they have been doing to live up to our corporate objectives.”  

As part of these ongoing green initiatives, Mobilink has incorporated a Building Management System – an intelligent centralized energy management solution to efficiently control & optimize the telco’s buildings’ consumption, and different Power System Optimization Projects. It also continuously revamps its communications structure to reduce paper usage, while cutting down on CO2 emissions through a reduction in corporate traveling; for this purpose Mobilink launched ‘MobiRide’ - an environment friendly-carpooling network designed and configured to address issues such as parking space constraints, high traveling expenses, and traffic congestions. The telco also holds regular employee engagement activities to create awareness about various environment issues, while Mobilink Torchbearers, volunteer employees, carry out environmental friendly activities like the recent tree plantation drive at the New Islamabad international Airport, where 2000 Silver Oak Trees were planted.

Read More

Mobilink Supports WhatsApp Urdu

The world’s mostpopular messaging app, WhatsApp, has just released an Urdu version of WhatsApp Android app, which has prompted Mobilink to exempt all data charges associated with the app’s usage through their Social Bundle. This move has been made in partnership with WhatsApp to promote the app’s usage amongst Mobilink’s large proportion of mobile internet users who All prefer Urdu as their first language, and those residing in towns and rural localities. To avail this limited time offer, subscribers need to dial *114*5# to activate their Free Social Bundle, and enjoy free WhatsApp over Mobilink Edge/3G.

“WhatsAppis now available in Urdu (on Android)!' said Brian Acton, Co-Founder of WhatsApp. “We’re excited to be partnering with Mobilink to enrich communications for Pakistani users in Pakistan and abroad.”

Aamir Manzoor, Head of Data, Mobilink commenting on the benefits of this partnership stated, “Mobilink is consistently looking to empower people to lead an enriched life through the introduction of innovative services and products. Supporting Whatsapp’s Urdu update is another step towards increasing the outreach of the use of internet and data in Pakistan through locally customized services. I am confident that with our free social bundle offer, Mobilink users will make the most out of WhatsAppUrdu.” 

  

Available on Android smartphones, the latest version of WhatsApp has a fully localized Urdu language update. To use WhatsApp in Urdu, customers simply have to change their language setting to Urdu on their Smartphones.

WhatsApp is not just your average messaging app and its popularity the world over has been possible thanks to the plethora of interactive features it offers i.e. Group chats, file sharing with contacts, Status Updates, Location sharing and voice notes ,to name a few. Mobilink believes it needs to spread its usage across every strata of the mobile using community in a bid to build a better real time SMS & MMS alternative, one that connects you with the world instantly through the Telco’ssuperior 3G connectivity.

Read More

Mobicash Services to be Available on NADRA e-Sahulat

Mobicash and NADRA Technologies Limited (NTL) signed an MOU to launch Branchless Banking services on NADRA e-Sahulat Platform. This partnership enables Mobicash customers to utilize the 12,000+ NADRA e-Sahulat kiosks across Pakistan for utility bill payments, domestic money transfers, loan repayments, opening of new Mobile Accounts and various other services in the futures.

Saleem Rafik, Director General Operations - NTL signed the MOU on behalf of NTL, Mobicash was represented by GhazanfarAzzam, CEO - Waseela Bank.  Both expressed great potential in the partnership and also talked about other ventures that could be undertaken together by leveraging their platforms in the future.  

Saleem Rafik stated that NADRA e-Sahulat franchise model was the first platform to offer electronic payment of utility bills in Pakistan. He further explained, “NTL believes in collaborations and Mobicash is a strategic partner for providing digital services in Pakistan. The collaboration with Mobicash is a giant step towards adding a portfolio of branchless banking services in to our e-Sahulat platform. Our joint network will enable domestic remittance and other Branchless Banking services for the convenience of public. The joint venture will facilitate banking industry for financial inclusion in the larger national interest”.

“e-Sahulat platform is the first real switch towards electronic banking and together we both share a common goal of providing micro-finance services to rural and other under privileged areas of the country”, added Ghazanfar Azzam.                                            

Aniqa Afzal Sandhu, Senior Director Mobile Financial services - Mobilink, while expressing great hope in the new partnership stated, “This venture will be of immense benefit to our customer base as this will mean ease of access for them through additional conveniently located agents.”

Read More

LTE the answer to exceptionally growing mobile data traffic

Aoun Muhammad

The data revenues of cellular mobile operators (CMOs) reached Rs47 billion during the year under review, showing a growth of 47.4% YoY. The data traffic has escalated by 19.3% overall in the telecom sector and 40% in voice traffic due to increased subscriptions and competitive bundle offers provided by the cellular services in Pakistan. These cellular companies have taken notice of the explosion of social apps usage in Pakistan and are offering lucrative offers that include daily, weekly and monthly plans for internet usage, which is also a major contributor to data traffic. Consumers are moving from voice call trend towards to mobile data trend because of apps such as Whatsapp, Facebook and Twitter.

There has also been a substantial increase in the imports of mobile handsets worth US $544 million, an indication of the consumers opting for Smartphones with features like email, instant messaging, video and voice calls. The consumers are opting for Smartphones with smart apps to ease their lives on the go and to keep themselves updated with global trends. A Smartphone also provides a window for the consumer to mix their social and business activities. These Smartphones at a time were costly to obtain, but now telecommunication companies, banks and manufacturers are providing discounts and installment offers with 0% markup that make obtaining a Smartphone easy.

The aggregate effect of increase in subscriptions, bundle offers, internet packages, social apps, email and smartphones have created an entire segment of mobile data traffic that is worth monitoring and it because of such factors networks are looking in to 3G and 4G networks. This will not only be a source of revenue for the cellular companies but will also generate employment in the economy, contributing positively towards Pakistan’s GDP.

In lieu of this GPRS/edge supported network, Pakistan has entered in an era of Next Generation Wireless Networks (NGWN) commonly known as 3G and 4G networks. These NGWNs are going to innovative all services across a national platform, including but not limited to financial, business, information, social, and education and entertainment services. In addition to these, there will be superior voice communication and faster bandwidth will make video calls possible. Having a 3G network is a big step for Pakistan, as it means faster internet than Edge/GPRS services, clearer voice calls and a superior experience in mobile finance, entertainment, education, social and business services.

However, Fourth Generation LTE networks will revolutionize the entire process of mobile payments and banking. It will also provide superior voice call quality; the download speed will be faster and video quality clearer. One of the leading telecom operators Warid Telecom has recently launched LTE services in Pakistan and became the first operator to transform from 2G to LTE technology. This transformation will help ease the data traffic being generated from social and business apps but will also update and revolutionize the entire system and lifestyle of Pakistan. The network will be ten times faster and more responsive than a 2G or 3G network as the LTE technology is designed to reduce latency. Video chats and conferences will facilitate social and business lives of a consumer. Introduction of LTE by Warid will also create an influx of investment as software companies will begin to develop apps that are facilitated by LTE networks, which will also generate employment.

In short, our lives will be hard to picture without Next Generation Mobile Networks in the coming future. The introduction of LTE is going to revolutionize and uplift the entire social, economic and financial state of affairs in Pakistan. Pakistan can infact boost its ideas and conceptualization of progress with the help of LTE and in few years make these concepts a reality. These Networks can act as a catalyst that will bridge the development gap between Pakistan and First World Countries, if utilized accurately.

The author of this article is a renowned publicist with a penchant for information technology and corporate sector.

Read More

Mobilink partners with LUMS to enhance entrepreneurial eco-system in the country

Telco to provide mentorship and sustenance to future startups at LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship under its ‘Make Your Mark’ initiative

Mobilink and LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship (LCE) have signed an agreement whereby, the Telco in collaboration with LCE will scout, mentor and provide sustenance to LCE’s next cohort of 12 to 18 prospective business startups. This extension of support to young entrepreneurs is being carried out by Mobilink under their ‘Make Your Mark’ (MYM) initiative with the objective of ‘Helping young people shape their future’. The partnership will see Mobilink support LCE by providing financial and non-financial assistance to help them in their pursuit of supporting the enhancement of the entrepreneurial eco-system in Pakistan.    

The MoU signing ceremony, between LUMS and Mobilink, was attended by Sohaib Arshad, Manager Corporate Responsibility - Mobilink, Dr. Ahsan-UL-Haq, acting VC – LUMS, and KhurramZafar, Executive Director - LCE, along with the top management of LCE and currently incubated start-ups at the Center.

Speaking about this incubator support initiative, Omar Manzur stated, “Our commitment to nurture and cultivate emerging talent is a fundamental element of our CSR approach and extends out to significantly contribute to nurturing young entrepreneurs who place enormous value on innovation, have cutting-edge ideas and are willing to take risks. We look to lessen their challenges and overcome road-blocks through our years of experience, comprehensive business consultancy and mentorship.” He further added, “The initiatives planned under our ‘MakeYour Mark’ program will offer support to a variety of beneficiaries to tackle the socio-economic challenges in Pakistan. The ultimate aim of MYM is enabling a generation of educated and tech-literate young people to help themselves, their communities in a bid to drive growth in the broader economy.”

Since LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship began its program, it has mentored and groomed over 80 entrepreneurs and the startup businesses have created a total of over 120 direct and 350+ indirect jobs. The combined annualized revenues of the startups based on last month's figures is approaching $250,000. These startups have also raised nearly $600,000 in investment from local and foreign investors. Moreover, the combined valuation of the businesses at which these startups have raised money at, or have had investor term sheets offered, is over $5 Million. With its third batch in the final phase of its graduation, LCE is currently accepting application for its fourth batch.

Khurram Zafar, Executive Director of LUMS Center for Entrepreneurship, while speaking about this partnership with Pakistan’s leading Telco, stated, “We look forward to continue to scout and support passionate Pakistani entrepreneurs in collaboration with Mobilink and its Make Your Mark initiative. The shared vision both organizations have to bolster entrepreneurship in Pakistan will go a long way towards strengthening this partnership over the long haul. We are thankful to Mobilink for the support it has extended.”

The ‘Make Your Mark’ initiative, launched by Mobilink last month, is a key element of VimpelCom’s corporate responsibility strategy. It aims to provide young people with technology tools, support and mentoring, and in some cases access to basic education, to help them tackle these challenges at an individual, community and national level – to shape their future. Under the Make Your Mark umbrella, Mobilink has also partnered Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy, Institute of Social and Policy Sciences, and GuarantCo and is working on expanding its mLiteracy program to reach out to an additional 3750 rural females in addition to establishing state-of-the-art ICT labs.  

Read More

Over 200 cities now experiencing Mobilink’s best in class 3G network

Mobilink has become the first Telco to expand its 3G network to over 200 cities of Pakistan. In line with its commitment to focus on the growth of high speed internet across the country, Mobilink sped up its 3G network expansion by adding 178 cities, to the existing 31, in the first half of 2015 alone.  Already the largest 3G network in Pakistan, Mobilink ensured its rapid 3G expansion was not hampering performance by certifying optimal performance in each area before moving on to the next.  

Coinciding with Mobilink’s vision to bridge the digital divide prevalent in the country, this milestone has been achieved in just over a year since the commercial launch of high speed mobile internet in Pakistan. During the course of 2015, Mobilink has expanded its 3G network across the country by providing comprehensive coverage in metros, smaller cities, and towns across the four provinces.

In order to encourage the use of 3G and increase awareness in these newly connected areas, Mobilink also offers its subscribers free 3G for a limited period of time, which has been appreciated by people from all walks of life.  

“Mobilink is playing a leading role in expanding the high speed broadband infrastructure in Pakistan. Being the first operator to launch 3G in more than 200 cities strengthens our position as the largest 3G network and also proves Mobilink’s commitment in bridging the digital divide by making a technologically advanced Pakistan,” said Aamir Ibrahim, CCO & Deputy CEO Mobilink. 

Further elaborating on the benefits to the public of a strong 3G presence, and the change in local trends, he stated, “3G broadband facilitates access to knowledge and is a key factor that positively impacts the social-economic canvas in the country. While call and text performance are important aspects of mobile communications, people are now relying more on the internet to for their productivity and entertainment needs. Mobilink remains committed to providing the benefits of a solid high-speed internet connection to every Pakistani, in every nook and corner of the country.”    

To support its superior 3Gservices, Mobilink has in place a robust fiber optic infrastructure that expands to over 8000 kilometers coupled with the latest technology, state-of-the-art equipment and a well versed team of professionals. Mobilink has invested heavily in its 3G network to provide exceptional 3G coverage to its subscribers in more than 200 cities.

Mobilink’s3G network connects millions of people who use the Telco’s superior internet speeds and affordable data packages for education, businesses, communication, entertainment, and e-learning purposes.

Read More

Mobilink Torchbearers Provide Relief to Victims of Heat Wave

Mobilink Foundation took the initiative to assist the local government in providing relief to the victims of severe heat wave which scoured Karachi and its neighboring localities this past week. Mobilink’s heat wave relief activity came to a completion with the planned distribution of relief by its Mobilink Torchbearers team at AbbasiShaheed Hospital - Karachi, Qatar Hospital - Karachi, Shah Bhitai Hospital - Hyderabad and Civil Hospital- Hyderabad.    

Speaking after the completion of the activity, Farooq Niaz, Senior Manager Corporate Communications, PR and CSR – Mobilink stated, “Our Mobilink Torchbearers assisted more than 3300 people throughout Karachi and Hyderabad in the last week of June, most of them heat stroke victims without adequate medical facilities and supplies due to overcrowding in all hospitals.”

Explaining the Telco’s aim to support local communities in times of need, he added, “We, at Mobilink, consider ourselves to be a valued part of the local community and constantly strive to assist in its rehabilitation whenever need arises. In this regard, Mobilink Torchbearers will continue their volunteer work throughout the month of Ramadan as a means to support and positively impact the communities that we operate in.” 

The heat wave relief activity saw Mobilink Torchbearers distribute a total of 10,000 bottles of mineral water, 6000 boxes of juice, 4000 ice packs, 4000 hand sized towels and 40 cooling water fans amongst heat stroke patients, their families and administration staff at the four hospitals. Commissioner Karachi appreciated the efforts of Mobilink Torchbearers and thanked them for playing an active role in disseminating aid at a critical situation. Mobilink has pledged to continue distributing aid amongst various hospitals throughout Karachi and neighboring localities during this abnormal weather situation.   

Mobilink Foundation, a registered non-profit organization, has always encouraged the spirit of volunteerism amongst Mobilink employees due to which it has been able to accomplish so much since its inception in 2007. The foundation continues to assist the communities in need, while pushing to uplift them at the same time.

Read More

50% population to have digital accounts by 2020: PTA

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) organized a Broadband Forum in collaboration with CISCO Systems at a local hotel in Islamabad today. The theme of the Forum was to find out ways and means to truly capitalize on the huge potential of broadband services in Pakistan in the wake of rapidly growing wireless broadband subscriptions. Chairman PTA, Dr. Syed Ismail Shah was the chief guest at this occasion. Member (Finance) PTA, Mr. Tariq Sultan,   Member (Compliance & Enforcement)PTA Mr. Abdul Samad, Member (Telecom), Ministry of IT,  Mr. Mudasar Hussain,  were also present on the occasion. IT & telecom industry experts, representatives of telecom companies and academia attended the seminar.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman PTA, Dr. Syed Ismail Shah highlighted the role of PTA as enabler and facilitator and said that the availability of mobile broadband has opened many doors of opportunities for Pakistan. The high speed internet will revolutionize all other industries in the country in the coming years.  Mobile broadband  has been introduced in Pakistan through successful auction of 3G and 4G spectrum last year. He said that, it is imperative that the benefits of broadband should reach to the grass root level in the form of e-services e-health, e-education, e-commerce, e-governance etc.

Member (Finance) PTA shared his views on the potential of mobile broadband as enabler for digital financial inclusion. He said that government has made National Financial Inclusion Policy which aims at 50% population of the country will have their digital accounts by 2020.  He said that technical regulation for mobile banking are being worked upon by PTA and State Bank. Currently 327 million revenue is coming from mobile segment and it is expected to cross 800 million in future, he added.

Member (Compliance & Enforcement)PTA chaired the first session on “Capitalizing on the potential of broadband”.  The session was participated by Mr.Wahaj us Siraz, CEO NayaTel, Mr.David Hovey, Specialist, CISCO Systems and Mr.Niaz A.Malik, Chief Corporate Sales, Zong.  The panelists discussed the ways and means as to how to capitalize on the potential of broadband in Pakistan.  The panelists showed concern over the tax levied by the Punjab Government on the broadband services that will affect their growth.  Member (Compliance & Enforcement) highlighted the role of broadband technologies in improving socio-economic condition of the people of Pakistan.

Second session on “Maximizing the Socio-economic Impact of Broadband was chaired by Mr.Mudassaur Hussain, Member (Telecom) Ministry of IT.  The panellists included Mr.Muhammad Aslam Hayat, Chief Corporate Affairs and Strategy Officer, Telenor, Ms.Kanwal Bokharey, Senior Economic Growth Advisor, USAID/Pakistan, Dr.Amir Mateen, Grants International.  The session was focussed on use of broadband technologies for the uplift of different segments of the society. At the end Chairman PTA presented memento to the participants of the Forum.

Read More