Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz has announced that artificial intelligence (AI) will be made mandatory in schools across the province starting today, marking a significant shift in education and governance policy. The decision was unveiled during an official workshop in Lahore focused on the use of digital tools in public administration.
The event, titled ‘Empowering Punjab with AI,’ was attended by members of the provincial cabinet and senior officials. 1,000 teachers have been trained as AI Master Trainers.
First AI training for provincial ministers
The workshop regarding the use of AI was conducted in Lahore, and Punjab’s cabinet members received formal training in artificial intelligence, an initiative the government described as unprecedented in Pakistan.
Experts from Google for Education gave sessions on how AI tools can support governance, policy planning, and administrative work. Ministers were introduced to Google Gemini and other digital tools, with demonstrations on drafting policy summaries, analysing proposals, and improving departmental processes.
Speaking at the event, Maryam Nawaz said digital technology had the potential to change how government works. She added that AI had become necessary for modern governance but stressed the need for responsible and ethical use.
Advisory board and education plans
Alongside the education decision, the chief minister approved the creation of a Google Tech Valley Digital Transformation Advisory Board. The body will guide future digital projects in the province.
Officials said the programme would also extend to teachers and students. Under the Tech Valley initiative, 3,000 teachers will receive master training in digital tools. More than 300,000 student IDs will be created within the School Education Department, while 200,000 students and 2,000 teachers linked to the Punjab Education Foundation will receive specialised AI training.
Wider digital initiatives
The workshop was also briefed on plans to support digital journalism. The provincial government intends to award 1,000 scholarships to 10 organisations working in media and innovation. Members of the Google delegation welcomed the steps, praising Lahore’s cultural heritage and the government’s focus on young people. They described the decision to mark 2026 as the Year of Youth as a sign of long-term planning.
The government says the measures aim to modernise public services while preparing students and officials for a more digital future.
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