The federal government has formally launched a national initiative focused on the development and implementation of artificial intelligence across Pakistan. Led by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, the project has received formal approval from the Planning Commission, with the PC-1 sanctioned and a total budget allocation of Rs. 534.6 million designated for the rollout. This comprehensive AI development program forms part of the broader Digital Pakistan framework and is designed to build the country’s AI capacity through skills training, infrastructure development, and startup support.
Under the project, the Ministry of IT plans to establish artificial intelligence hubs and specialized training centers in multiple regions across the country. These centers will be integrated with the existing network of seven National Incubation Centers located in major cities, ensuring access to resources and infrastructure for AI learning and development. The program’s educational component targets the training of 20,000 students in foundational and applied AI skills, alongside the development of a professional cohort of 500 experts trained in advanced AI techniques and applications.
The project also includes financial support for 150 AI-based startups, with a focus on encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship within the sector. These startups will be provided grants to support research, development, and deployment of AI-powered solutions relevant to both public and private sector challenges. The funding mechanism is designed to foster a collaborative ecosystem between academia, startups, and industry stakeholders.
For the fiscal year 2025–26, the initiative will establish two new AI hubs and host 3,000 workshops across various regions. The training sessions will cater to a wide spectrum of participants, ranging from students to mid-career professionals. Two national-level awareness events will also be conducted to engage the public and stakeholders on the responsible use of AI technologies. These sessions are expected to raise awareness of AI’s potential, ethical considerations, and regulatory requirements in the Pakistani context.
An important element of the project is the adoption of a transparent and fair AI governance framework. The Ministry of IT has outlined that all activities under the program will be aligned with principles of responsible and ethical AI development. This includes setting policy standards for data use, algorithmic accountability, and inclusivity to ensure the long-term sustainability of AI integration in government and industry operations.
This national AI development effort is a key component of Digital Pakistan’s ambition to accelerate digital transformation across the country. It aims to equip the workforce with the necessary tools and knowledge to compete in the global digital economy, while also ensuring a structured and inclusive approach to technological advancement. With an emphasis on infrastructure, education, and governance, the initiative reflects the government’s strategy to position Pakistan as a regional player in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
