The Government of Pakistan has officially launched a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Development Plan aimed at transforming the country’s digital landscape. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) will lead the initiative, which includes establishing AI hubs, training centers, and innovation platforms nationwide. The project is designed to equip thousands of Pakistanis with future-ready skills and foster a vibrant AI ecosystem.
According to government officials, the Planning Commission has approved the PC-1 proposal for this project, with a budget allocation of Rs 534.6 million. AI hubs will be launched in seven major cities within existing National Incubation Centers (NICs), serving as technology and research hubs for both students and professionals. These hubs will support AI research, startup development, and skills training.
The initiative has ambitious targets. It plans to provide AI training to 20,000 students and 500 industry professionals through specialized workshops and certifications. In addition, 150 AI-focused startups will receive innovation grants to develop and scale their products, creating opportunities for entrepreneurship in areas like health, agriculture, and education.
By 2025–26, the ministry aims to establish at least two full-scale AI hubs, conduct over 3,000 training workshops, and host awareness sessions to educate the public about ethical AI use. A strong emphasis will be placed on building fair and transparent AI governance policies to ensure the responsible deployment of AI technologies in public and private sectors.
This initiative is part of Pakistan’s broader “Digital Pakistan” vision, which seeks to digitize government services, promote tech education, and enable economic growth through digital innovation. Officials describe the AI plan as a key step toward preparing the country’s youth for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and enhancing Pakistan’s global competitiveness in emerging technologies.