Pakistan to train 1 million in AI by 2030 under new policy

Pakistan’s National AI Policy 2025 outlines ambitious plans: to train one million people in AI by 2030, create 10000 trainers, provide 20000 internships and 3000 research scholarships each year, and supply 150 institutions with access to computing and data resources.

By 2027, the government aims to train 100% of public servants in AI, preparing them for future governance needs. Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that the initiative will be led by the National AI Skill Development Program, which aims to train 200,000 individuals annually. Alongside this, a “Train-the-Trainer” program will prepare 10000 trainers by 2027, while a High-Tech Internship Program will offer 20,000 annual placements with certification.

Education reforms are also part of the strategy, integrating AI into schools and universities. The government has approved 3,000 postgraduate and doctoral scholarships annually and loans for 15000 students per year. These efforts will run through public-private partnerships with NAVTTC, provincial governments, education boards, and private enterprises.

To ensure effective governance, the Ministry of IT and Telecom has started the process of forming the Artificial Intelligence Council, which will oversee the implementation of the National AI Policy 2025. A Policy Implementation Cell and Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence are also being established in major cities, supported by regional hubs.

The government has launched the National AI Advancement Initiative, including a National AI Fund for startups, a venture fund to cover post-seed financing gaps, and an Innovation Fund through Centres of Excellence. These funds will give entrepreneurs access to labs, advisory services, and venture capital incentives. Shaza Fatima emphasized that the policy also focuses on inclusivity, with DigiSkills programs for women and persons with disabilities, entrepreneurship incentives, and AI awareness campaigns in local languages.