The first cohort of the Pakistan Engineering Council’s (PEC) Generative AI course successfully concluded with a ceremony held at PEC Headquarters. Developed in collaboration with Pak Angels Silicon Valley USA, iCodeGuru, and Aspire Pakistan, the six-week training program was tailored for engineers registered with PEC, engineering managers, university faculty, and students, as well as corporate sponsorship partners.
The course provided international certification with a traceable QR code and covered key topics, including an introduction to Generative AI, generative models, and hands-on exercises. Launched on December 1, 2024, the inaugural cohort saw overwhelming interest, with 18,000 engineers applying for the program. Out of the 5,000 engineers who participated in the free online course, 1,258 successfully qualified and were awarded certificates.
During the closing ceremony, the top 10 engineers from the cohort were announced, along with three standout teams recognized for their exceptional performance. Speaking at the occasion, Chairman PEC Engr Waseem Nazir highlighted the significance of the program, stating that PEC aims to train 15,000 engineers in Generative AI through three cohorts within a year.
“The participation and completion rates are encouraging. Engineers are showing great interest, and this training will equip them with essential skills,” he said, extending his congratulations to those who successfully completed the course. Founder of Pak Angels M. Anwar Khan stressed the importance of transforming these projects into commercial ventures, highlighting the need for sustainability, profitability, and long-term success in their implementation. Chairperson of Aspire Pakistan Hassan Syed remarked that AI will be a game-changer for Pakistan’s engineering sector, helping professionals innovate and compete on an international level.
The event was attended by Chairman PEC Engr Waseem Nazir, Founder of Pak Angels M. Anwar Khan, Advisor to Chairman PEC on CPD Muhammad Imran Yousaf Qureshi, Additional Registrar Engr. Muhammad Sohail Khan, and other PEC officials. The Chairperson of Aspire Pakistan, Hassan Syed, President of iCodeGuru, Dr. Zafar Shahid, and engineers joined the event virtually.
The second cohort of the Generative AI course is set to commence in April 2025. Pakistan is set to make a significant leap in artificial intelligence education as 15,000 engineers will receive certification in Generative AI in 2025. This initiative marks a crucial step in the country’s efforts to integrate AI-driven solutions into various sectors and enhance its global competitiveness in the technology landscape. The program aims to equip engineers with advanced AI skills, enabling them to develop innovative applications and contribute to the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The certification initiative has been launched with the collaboration of leading institutions, industry experts, and government agencies to ensure that engineers receive high-quality training aligned with international standards. Generative AI, a branch of artificial intelligence that focuses on creating new content, including text, images, and code, is expected to revolutionize industries ranging from healthcare to finance and manufacturing. The training will cover various aspects of AI, including deep learning, natural language processing, and AI ethics, ensuring that Pakistani engineers are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges.
With the rapid advancements in AI technology, global demand for skilled AI professionals has surged, and Pakistan is positioning itself to capitalize on this opportunity. By certifying 15,000 engineers, the country aims to build a strong workforce capable of driving AI-led transformation in both local and international markets. The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader vision of becoming a technology hub and strengthening its IT exports. Additionally, it is expected to create new job opportunities, foster innovation, and attract foreign investment in the AI sector.
Government officials and industry leaders have expressed their optimism about the program’s impact on Pakistan’s tech ecosystem. They believe that AI-driven solutions will not only improve business efficiency but also contribute to solving complex societal challenges, such as improving healthcare accessibility, optimizing supply chain operations, and enhancing educational tools. The focus on Generative AI is particularly significant as it opens doors to cutting-edge research and development, allowing Pakistani engineers to collaborate on global AI projects.
The certification process will be conducted through structured training modules, hands-on workshops, and real-world projects. Participants will have access to mentorship from AI experts and industry leaders, ensuring they gain practical experience in applying AI techniques. This initiative is expected to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, making Pakistani engineers highly competitive in the global job market.
Pakistan’s AI ecosystem has been steadily growing, with increasing investments in research, AI startups, and technology-driven policies. However, challenges such as limited AI infrastructure, lack of awareness, and talent retention remain key hurdles. This certification program aims to address these challenges by fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The government’s proactive approach in promoting AI education reflects its commitment to embracing emerging technologies and positioning Pakistan as a leader in the AI revolution.
Industry experts highlight that as AI becomes more integrated into daily life, the need for skilled professionals will continue to grow. Countries that invest in AI education and training will have a competitive edge in the global economy. Pakistan’s initiative to certify 15,000 engineers is a step in the right direction, ensuring that the country does not lag behind in this technological race. By equipping engineers with AI expertise, Pakistan is not only preparing its workforce for the future but also strengthening its position in the global digital economy.
As 2025 approaches, the success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of training programs, industry partnerships, and continuous updates to AI curricula. If executed well, Pakistan’s AI-trained engineers will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology, driving innovation, and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
