Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has announced a major initiative to train 1 million youth in Artificial Intelligence (AI), aiming to drive a digital revolution in the country and create new employment opportunities for young people.
Addressing an important event, the federal minister said that due to the global transformation brought by artificial intelligence, rapid changes are taking place across all sectors, and Pakistan cannot afford to be left behind in this race.
Historic target of free AI training for 1 million Youth
Referring to the vision of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, she announced that the government has set a target to provide advanced AI training to 1 million young people over the next three years.
She said that all training programs will be completely free of cost so that financial constraints do not become a barrier for any student.
Pakistan’s first AI policy and local perspective
Shaza Fatima said that the government has, for the first time in Pakistan’s history, approved a formal Artificial Intelligence policy. She emphasised the importance of training AI models according to a “Pakistani perspective,” incorporating local culture, language, and needs to help solve domestic challenges at the local level.
Internet improvements and launch of 5G services
Acknowledging past issues of slow internet and connectivity challenges, the minister said that the lack of suitable spectrum had been a major issue. However, the government has now resolved it permanently.
She announced that 5G services have officially been launched in major cities of Pakistan, which will help eliminate internet speed issues.
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The government has increased spectrum availability from 270 MHz to 750 MHz, including the successful auction of 480 MHz recently. Additionally, new submarine cables are being laid to ensure faster internet connectivity nationwide.
Google investment and local Chromebook production
Highlighting another major achievement in the tech sector, the minister said negotiations with global tech giant Google regarding investment and collaboration in Pakistan are progressing successfully.
She also announced that local manufacturing of Google Chromebooks has started in Pakistan, calling it a milestone for the “Made in Pakistan” tech industry.
The federal minister said all these initiatives aim to transform Pakistan into a regional digital hub and equip young people with globally competitive skills.
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