Govt Explains Why AI Isn’t Working in Pakistan

The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has pinpointed limited training centers, unreliable internet connectivity, a scarcity of qualified instructors, and low awareness as the principal obstacles hindering the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) education in rural and underserved regions of Pakistan. A government document outlines plans to enhance access to sophisticated technology education via regional training centers, online and blended learning initiatives, collaborations with universities and industries, and scholarships targeting women and disadvantaged demographics.

Under the AI Policy 2025, the government aspires to train one million new and existing IT graduates in IT and associated technologies within the next five years. The policy also aspires to train 10,000 instructors in emerging technologies by 2027. Current programs include DigiSkills, Code4AI, the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative, and the AI SEEKHO Program, which seeks to train over 100,000 individuals in artificial intelligence and natural language-based application development.

The ministry explained that it is implementing AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, and software development training programs through its affiliated departments and executing agencies. Over 900,000 training sessions were conducted through DigiSkills courses during the fiscal year 2025-26. Code4AI, for instance, aims to train 7,500 individuals in AI-driven full-stack development, encompassing programming languages, machine learning, deep learning, blockchain, and quantum computing.

Future steps may involve a nationwide assessment to pinpoint underserved areas and key skills, followed by a phased rollout plan for the National AI Skills Program. Other proposals encompass specialized training tracks, enhanced partnerships with both national and international tech firms, mobile training units, and regional technology hubs to broaden access to emerging technologies and diminish the digital divide.