ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has successfully concluded its first-ever Bug Bounty Challenge 2026, with the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore emerging as the winner.
The initiative aimed to enhance the cybersecurity of Pakistan’s digital identity systems through responsible vulnerability detection and advanced security assessment. Launched in January 2026, the nationwide competition marked a significant step toward strengthening the country’s cybersecurity framework, according to an official statement issued by NADRA.
Organised under the “Uraan Pakistan” initiative, the challenge was conducted in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan Digital Authority, and the National Cyber Emergency Response Team of Pakistan (PKCERT).
A total of 27 teams comprising 88 participants competed in regional rounds hosted at leading universities. These included Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI) Swabi, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) Islamabad, University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore and NED University of Engineering and Technology (NED University) Karachi.
In total, 27 partner universities participated in this nationwide activity including Sarhad University of Science & Technology Peshawar, University of Gujrat and Military College of Signals Rawalpindi among others.
UET Lahore (Faisalabad Campus) secured first position while Pak-Austria Fachhochschule Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology won second prize. Teams from Mehran University of Engineering and Technology Jamshoro and International Islamic University Islamabad, were awarded consolation prizes in recognition of their commendable performance.
The nationwide journey concluded with a ceremony at NADRA Headquarters, attended by senior officials, representatives of partner institutions and participating teams. Top performing teams were recognised for their outstanding performance.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Monis Akhlaq, Chief Information Security Officer of NADRA, stated that the Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 marks the beginning of a new approach to engaging cybersecurity talent. Beyond awards, the challenge built confidence and capability. It encouraged a shared sense of national responsibility among emerging cybersecurity professionals.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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