Pakistan approves AI Policy 2025 to create jobs for youth, enhance public services
Pakistan has recently undertaken initiatives to digitize its economy and employ the use of artificial intelligence to improve services. Through its 'Digital Pakistan' initiative, the government has attempted to focus on expanding broadband and 5G infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, youth engagement and innovation, developing e‑governance services for citizens and supporting investment in tech startups, IT zones and export-driven IT firms.
The AI policy was approved during a meeting of the cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) said in a report.
'The policy aims to democratize access to artificial intelligence, enhance public services, and open up new employment and innovation avenues,' APP said.
The AI policy aims to train one million AI professionals by 2030, establish an AI Innovation Fund and AI Venture Fund to boost private sector involvement in artificial intelligence, APP reported.
The national policy also aims to create 50,000 AI-driven civic projects and 1,000 local AI products in the next five years. The government intends to make the use of artificial intelligence inclusive through the distribution of 3,000 annual AI scholarships and facilitate 1,000 research projects, the state media said.
The policy also aims to ensure the inclusion of women and persons with disabilities through accessible education and financing, strengthening cybersecurity and national data security protocols, promoting global partnerships and compliance with international AI regulations, APP said.
Sharif said his government aimed to provide the youth opportunities in the field of AI.
'Our youth are Pakistan's greatest asset,' he was quoted as saying by the APP. 'Providing them with education, skills, and equal opportunities in AI is a top priority.'
An AI Council and a comprehensive Master Plan & Action Matrix will oversee the AI policy's implementation, APP said.
'AI will not only modernize our economy but also enhance productivity across agriculture, public services, and governance,' Sharif said.
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