ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has launched a National Artificial Intelligence Fund and a long-term roadmap to integrate AI into key areas of the country’s development, as part of efforts to keep pace with global technological trends.
The initiative was announced by Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal during a meeting of the National Task Force on Artificial Intelligence in Islamabad.
“Pakistan must move ahead with focus and purpose,” Iqbal said, urging stronger coordination among institutions and alignment with the country’s broader goals. “AI is shaping the future. We cannot afford to be left behind.”
The 10-year roadmap aims to embed artificial intelligence across twelve critical sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, governance, climate, and business. For each of these, dedicated working groups will be formed with representatives from government, academia, and industry to develop sector-specific strategies and timelines.
The National AI Fund, meanwhile, will support promising research, pilot projects, and AI-driven innovations that address local challenges. It is intended to help bridge the gap between ideas and implementation.
The planning ministry has also ordered a nationwide survey to map existing AI talent, research capacity, and infrastructure. The findings will inform future investments and policy decisions.
The task force, established in April 2023, has also been directed to organise a national workshop in collaboration with the Pakistan IT Industry Association (P@SHA) and other stakeholders. The event is expected to gather experts and practitioners to brainstorm solutions tailored to Pakistan’s needs.
Iqbal said adopting AI is no longer optional but essential, adding that the country must act swiftly if it wants to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving digital world.
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