Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized Pakistan’s growing focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology-driven development while addressing participants of Indus AI Week 2026’s women hackathon ceremony at IT Park. She noted that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and provincial leadership are actively prioritizing the IT sector. Fatima highlighted that the country aims to contribute to global AI entrepreneurship in the coming years, underlining technology’s role in improving citizens’ lives and fostering inclusive economic growth.
She spoke about the significance of Indus AI Week, which has been running for the past one and a half weeks, stating that it seeks to connect youth with the Indus Intelligent Civilization. During the event, she interacted with young children engaged in technological projects, praising their innovation and dedication. The Federal Minister expressed pride in witnessing Pakistan’s youth leading the nation toward a technology-driven future and highlighted that equipping young people with modern skills can significantly accelerate national development, especially given Pakistan’s status as the fifth-largest country by population.
Fatima also stressed the importance of expanding access to technology in underserved and remote areas to prevent digital inequality and polarization. She particularly appreciated the participation of women, including homemakers, in technological initiatives, highlighting the need to create safe and supportive environments that enable women’s financial independence and meaningful contribution to the digital economy. She noted that women make up over half of the population and empowering them is essential for national progress.
The Federal Minister congratulated the management of Saylani and other stakeholders for establishing a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to youth empowerment and technology advancement. Special Assistant to Chief Minister Sindh on Science and IT, Ali Rashid, also addressed the ceremony, emphasizing collaboration to strengthen technological initiatives. The event concluded with Fatima and Rashid distributing cash prizes to the winners of the women hackathon, recognizing their achievements and encouraging further innovation among Pakistan’s young technologists.
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