Pakistan has rolled out a groundbreaking National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy aimed at creating a $2.7 billion domestic AI market within five years, positioning the country as a regional technology leader.
Built on six core pillars innovation, skills, security and ethics, sectoral transformation, infrastructure, and international collaboration the policy sets a roadmap for an inclusive and secure AI ecosystem that boosts employment and digital development.
Securing AI Systems and Data
A key feature of the plan is the creation of a secure and transparent AI environment. A new AI Directorate and AI Ethics Board will oversee data privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible AI use. The policy promises human oversight and transparency, introducing a public register of AI systems so citizens can see how AI is used across sectors.
It also proposes an open-source AI governance framework, aligned with international data protection standards, and calls for a national data security policy to protect the country’s digital infrastructure. Regulations for generative AI will be established to curb risks like misinformation, privacy violations, and copyright breaches.
Creating Jobs and Building Skills
To strengthen human capital, Pakistan aims to train 200,000 people each year in AI tools, with special modules for women and differently-abled citizens.
The policy outlines 3,000 annual scholarships for postgraduate and doctoral programs, along with an interest-free education fund for 15,000 students pursuing high-tech degrees.
A National AI Internship Program will also offer 20,000 internships annually, while a specialized AI curriculum for public servants will focus on ethics and data protection.
Boosting Innovation and Startups
A National AI Fund (NAIF) will be launched under the Ignite National Technology Fund, dedicating 30% of its R&D resources to AI research and commercialization.
Centres of Excellence (CoEs) will be set up across major cities to serve as innovation hubs, supporting AI startups, training programs, and local research. Within these centres, innovation and venture funds will back projects in healthcare, education, and agriculture, helping startups grow and scale responsibly.
Transforming Key Sectors
The government plans to integrate AI into education, healthcare, agriculture, and energy, improving public services and industry efficiency.
A Ranking Management System will help citizens and businesses identify the most suitable AI tools. Businesses adopting AI will enjoy tax incentives, training programs, and subsidies, while AI-powered solutions will assist farmers in reducing crop losses and improving yields.
Strengthening AI Infrastructure
To support innovation, a national AI computing network will be created, providing advanced computing power to 100 universities and research centres.
Upgraded public-sector data centres and cloud-based AI services will enhance access to high-quality datasets, making AI development more efficient and affordable for local developers and startups.
Expanding Global Partnerships
Internationally, Pakistan plans to sign bilateral AI agreements with countries such as the United States, aligning domestic regulations with global AI standards.
The country will actively engage in international AI forums, attract foreign investment, and establish joint research centres. Talent exchange programs will allow students and professionals to study abroad, bringing back skills and expertise to strengthen the local AI ecosystem.
Pakistan’s National AI Policy marks a major leap toward a digitally empowered and ethically governed AI-driven economy. With a strong focus on skills, innovation, and collaboration, the country aims to harness artificial intelligence not only for technological progress but also for inclusive growth and job creation.
