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Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that Pakistan’s first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy is in its final stages and will likely be approved in the near future. Speaking at a seminar held at Quaid-i-Azam University, she underscored the policy’s importance for shaping Pakistan’s digital future and urged all stakeholders—government institutions, academia, private industry, and the youth—to actively contribute to its execution.
A Year of Consultation Yields a Roadmap for the Future
The AI policy was finalized following extensive consultations spanning over a year, involving local experts, international stakeholders, and policymakers. The comprehensive framework focuses on six core pillars:
- Innovation and Research
- Awareness and Capacity Building
- Infrastructure Development
- AI Ethics and Safety
- Sectoral Transformation
- Global Cooperation
“Our main focus now is on putting the policy into action,” Shaza Fatima stated. “We want everyone to join this journey and help bring these ideas to life.”
She emphasized that the policy is not just a government document but a national vision that requires collaborative ownership.
Feedback Welcomed: Open Government Stance on AI Development
Encouraging inclusive participation, the minister invited feedback and suggestions from experts, institutions, and individuals. “We are open to feedback through email and social media. This is not a one-way process,” she said.
NA IT Subcommittee Seeks Reports on LDI Issues and 5G Auction Delays
The government is now looking for collaborative partners across academia, tech organizations, and civil society to improve and implement the policy’s action plan.
Pakistan Positioned for AI Integration Amid Global Shifts
Highlighting the evolving global technology landscape, Shaza Fatima expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to adapt and grow. “We have a strong starting point. If we work together, nothing can stop our progress,” she said.
She called on the nation to abandon narrow political and institutional thinking in favor of national unity for technological advancement.
Women in Tech: Inclusion is Essential for Growth
The minister commended the high participation of women at the event and stressed that gender inclusion is not a luxury but a necessity for national progress.
“No country can succeed by leaving out half its population. Women’s inclusion is not optional—it’s necessary for growth,” she added.
Her remarks support broader efforts to promote gender equality in the science, technology, and innovation sectors, especially through initiatives targeting young women in STEM fields.
Youth Empowerment Through Tech Training
A key component of the government’s AI policy is youth engagement. Shaza Fatima shared that over 350,000 young Pakistanis have received technology training through collaborative programs with:
- Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)
- Ignite
- National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC)
- Higher Education Commission (HEC)
- Tech giants like Google, Huawei, and Microsoft
“Our aim is to ensure that every IT graduate either gets a job or starts a business,” she stated.
She added that billions of rupees have been allocated in the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) and related budgets to support youth employment and digital entrepreneurship.
National Cooperation Is Key to Success
While acknowledging government efforts, the minister was clear that true success depends on broad collaboration.
“The ministry alone cannot do everything. Centers of Excellence and other institutions must work together,” she said. “Development depends on national cooperation.”
She called on universities, think tanks, research centers, and private firms to take ownership of their roles in the AI ecosystem.
Digital FDI Forum Brings $700 Million in Investment
In a major milestone for Pakistan’s digital transformation, Shaza Fatima shared that the country hosted its first-ever Digital Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Forum this year.
Held in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), the event brought together delegates from 45 countries, including ICT ministers and global investors.
“We signed MoUs worth $700 million, making it the largest digital investment event in Pakistan’s history,” she revealed.
The forum helped position Pakistan as a rising digital economy and created opportunities for cross-border partnerships in AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
Pakistan Startup Fund and AI-Driven Innovation
A special announcement from the minister was the launch of the Pakistan Startup Fund, aimed at promoting AI-based startups and research.
“This fund is set to become one of the biggest government-supported platforms for innovation, research, and product development,” she said.
The fund will offer financial support, mentorship, and incubation to early-stage startups, especially those working in health tech, agri-tech, fintech, and AI for education.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Pakistan’s Digital Future
As Pakistan prepares to approve and implement its first national AI policy, Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja’s call for unity, innovation, and inclusion sets the tone for a transformative digital future.
From training the youth and empowering women to attracting foreign investment and supporting startups, the government aims to leverage AI not just for technological advancement, but as a catalyst for socioeconomic growth.
If executed effectively, this AI policy could be the foundation of Pakistan’s leap into the Fourth Industrial Revolution — where ideas are not just created, but transformed into powerful national assets.
