The town of Dhanote, nestled in South Punjab, is undergoing a digital transformation that’s changing lives—especially for students. With the roll-out of structured, government-supported internet programs and digital literacy efforts, young learners here are gaining the tools they need to compete in a modern, knowledge-based economy. These changes, supported by initiatives such as NAVTTC, Ignite, and Punjab IT Board, aim to close the digital divide for rural learners. One major milestone in this journey is the expansion of high-speed Internet in Dhanote—a vital step in bringing equitable education and opportunities to underserved regions.
Digital Learning Opportunities for Rural Students
Quick Answer: New internet projects in Dhanote offer students access to online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and e-library resources.
With better connectivity, students from Bahawalpur, Multan, and nearby towns can now access:
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Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX for global learning
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Virtual University of Pakistan’s lectures in real-time
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Online matric and intermediate tutoring via Punjab Board apps
A case study from Govt. High School Dhanote shows that after fiber internet installation, students’ digital literacy scores rose by 43% within six months.
Role of Government and STZA in Bridging the Digital Gap
Quick Answer: The Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) and Punjab IT Board are spearheading student-centered digital initiatives in South Punjab.
These include:
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“eRozgaar” freelancing training in Multan and Bahawalpur
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Digital Hubs inside schools under the Taleem Ghar program
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Youth Innovation Labs co-funded by Ignite and HEC
“For digital Pakistan to be inclusive, rural students must be connected and skilled,” says Dr. Syed Junaid Imam, a senior figure at Ignite.
Such efforts have already enabled hundreds of students in Dhanote to join virtual science and coding bootcamps organized by Lahore-based incubators.
High-Speed Internet and Academic Performance
Quick Answer: Students with broadband access in Dhanote show improved exam results and STEM engagement.
After consistent deployment of high-speed internet:
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Enrollment in science and computer subjects increased by 27%
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Female students participated more in coding classes
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Students began competing in national-level digital competitions
A student from Bahawalpur, enrolled remotely in a Python bootcamp via Dhanote’s learning center, recently earned a scholarship to a tech university in Islamabad.
Internet Access Creating Equal Opportunities
Quick Answer: Digital connectivity is leveling the educational playing field for underserved areas like Dhanote.
Before connectivity improvements, most students lacked:
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Access to updated curricula
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Online test prep materials
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Opportunities to explore global knowledge
Now, thanks to internet initiatives, even students from modest backgrounds can access:
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Live test-prep classes
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Digital skill-building platforms
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Remote mentorship programs
These results directly stem from the recent Project in Dhanote (link), which introduced fiber internet, student-friendly workspaces, and subsidized access packages.
Empowering Female Students Through Internet Access
Quick Answer: Girls in Dhanote and South Punjab now use the internet to pursue education, freelancing, and digital literacy.
Traditionally, societal limitations and a lack of access kept many girls out of the classroom. But today:
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Online classrooms enable girls to learn from home
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Freelancing courses from NAVTTC are available in Urdu
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Digital storytelling workshops have allowed girls to share local narratives online
One notable case is a 16-year-old from Dhanote, who launched a local blog teaching English grammar tips. Within 3 months, she had over 10,000 page views and was featured in a regional newsletter.
Impact on Higher Education Aspirations
Quick Answer: Internet in Dhanote encourages more students to apply for universities and competitive exams.
Access to the internet has significantly impacted:
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Application success rates for programs at BZU Multan and Islamia University Bahawalpur
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Participation in SAT, CSS, MDCAT, and ECAT prep courses
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Awareness of scholarship and exchange opportunities
Digital workshops conducted weekly via Zoom are increasing awareness among Dhanote students about study-abroad options and IT-based careers.
Community Wi-Fi and Local Study Zones
Quick Answer: Public Wi-Fi zones in Dhanote have created new spaces for collaborative learning.
With help from public-private efforts, study zones are appearing across:
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Dhanote’s central town library
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Co-learning spaces near Ghalla Mandi
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Female-friendly zones within community centers
Students now regularly gather for:
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Group assignments
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Exam prep sessions
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Mentorship programs run by university students from Multan
These co-learning zones are built under the same framework that supports Dhanote’s larger digital inclusion project.
Student Freelancing and Economic Opportunities
Quick Answer: Students in Dhanote are now earning income through digital skills taught via internet training centers.
Many students from Bahawalpur and Dhanote have completed short-term courses and are working on:
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Logo design and video editing gigs
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Content writing and social media marketing
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Online tutoring for global students
In 2024 alone, over 250 students from Dhanote collectively earned more than PKR 5 million through freelance work. These numbers were unimaginable before internet access expanded.
Challenges Still Faced by Students
Quick Answer: Despite progress, power outages, affordability, and digital device access still hinder full connectivity.
To sustain progress:
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More subsidized internet packages are needed
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Solar-powered routers must be introduced for off-grid areas
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Schools need regular IT maintenance budgets
NGOs and government institutions like Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) are currently working on filling these remaining gaps in South Punjab.
Regional Collaboration Across South Punjab
Quick Answer: Institutions in Multan and Bahawalpur are supporting Dhanote’s students with resources and joint initiatives.
Cross-regional programs are in action, including:
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Tech field trips to Multan’s IT parks
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Collaborative projects between schools in Bahawalpur and Dhanote
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Mobile IT buses offering hands-on experience in villages
These partnerships ensure that Dhanote’s students are not isolated but integrated into South Punjab’s larger digital ecosystem.
FAQs
1. What is the Internet in Dhanote project?
It’s a local initiative to expand internet access and empower youth with digital tools.
2. How are students in Dhanote using the internet for education?
They access virtual classrooms, test prep platforms, freelancing tutorials, and academic resources.
3. Are girls in Dhanote also benefiting from the internet?
Yes, many girls now learn online from home and have begun working as freelancers or bloggers.
4. What government programs are involved in this effort?
STZA, Ignite, NAVTTC, and Punjab IT Board are actively funding and supporting digital education.
5. Is the internet fast and affordable in Dhanote?
Yes, fiber broadband has been introduced with student-friendly pricing and community zones.
6. What challenges still exist?
Power outages, device availability, and affordability for the poorest families remain issues.
7. Can students in nearby towns also benefit?
Absolutely. Students from Multan, Bahawalpur, and Lodhran can access shared regional resources.
Final Thought
As someone who has visited schools in South Punjab and spoken to teachers and students in Dhanote, I’ve seen a transformation that goes beyond just connectivity. What once was a region struggling to bridge the education gap is now fast becoming an example of rural digital empowerment. The Project in Dhanote offers a framework for nationwide replication—one where equity, access, and innovation work hand in hand.
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