Pakistan has entered a new chapter in its journey toward becoming a technology-driven nation with the launch of its first National Artificial Intelligence Policy in 2025. This landmark policy, approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his cabinet, outlines a clear vision for using AI to improve the economy, public services, and daily life for citizens.
Training One Million People in AI Skills by 2030
One of the most ambitious goals of the policy is to train one million people in AI skills by 2030. Students, fresh graduates, professionals from other fields, and even citizens with no prior technical background will have access to learning opportunities.
The training will include online courses, workshops, and partnerships with universities and international tech companies. The idea is to create a skilled workforce that can compete globally and meet the growing demand for AI professionals.
Bringing AI into Daily Life and Public Services
AI will move beyond laboratories and corporate offices, becoming part of everyday life and public services in Pakistan. Under the new policy, the government plans to implement AI in 50,000 civic projects and develop 1,000 AI-based products within the next five years.
In education, smart learning systems will adapt lessons to match each student’s needs. In agriculture, AI-powered systems will help farmers plan crops more effectively and boost food production. Climate monitoring will also benefit from AI, with early warning systems providing timely alerts for floods, droughts, and other natural disasters.
Funding Innovation Through AI-Specific Funds
To support creativity and problem-solving, the government will introduce two major funding programs: the AI Innovation Fund and the AI Venture Fund. These funds will help startups, researchers, and companies develop their own AI solutions.
Importantly, 10% of Pakistan’s total research and development budget will go directly to AI projects. This investment is aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on imported technology and encouraging local innovation.
The Six Pillars of Pakistan’s AI Policy
The first pillar focuses on innovation and research, with plans to establish new research centers and AI laboratories across the country. The second emphasizes developing a skilled workforce by introducing AI education from school level to advanced university programs. The third addresses AI ethics and safety, ensuring responsible use of technology and protecting people’s rights through clear regulations.
The fourth targets sector development, applying AI in crucial areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and climate solutions. The fifth pillar works on improving infrastructure by building data centers, expanding cloud storage, and ensuring access to high-speed internet for AI applications.
Making AI Accessible to Everyone
The government has emphasized that the benefits of AI must reach all parts of society. Scholarships and free training programs will target people from rural and underdeveloped areas. This approach ensures that even those without access to expensive technology can learn and benefit.
Special programs will also support women entrepreneurs, rural students, and differently-abled citizens. The aim is to make AI a tool that reduces inequality rather than increasing it.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Experts believe the policy’s success will depend on how well it is implemented. Pakistan must strengthen its internet infrastructure, pass strong data privacy laws, and maintain transparency in all AI-related projects.
Rural areas, in particular, need better connectivity so residents there can access online learning and AI tools. If these challenges are addressed, Pakistan could position itself as a leader in AI innovation in the region.
The National AI Policy 2025 is not just a technology document it is a vision for Pakistan’s future. By focusing on skills, innovation, ethics, and inclusivity, the country hopes to transform its economy and public services.
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