Pakistan’s Bold Move: $1 Billion Investment in AI by 2030
In a significant announcement during the opening ceremony of Indus AI Week in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled a groundbreaking initiative: a $1 billion investment to foster artificial intelligence (AI) in Pakistan by 2030. This ambitious plan aims to develop a robust AI ecosystem that not only enhances the country’s tech landscape but also prepares the youth for pivotal roles in the fast-evolving digital economy.
During his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of integrating AI into the educational framework. He revealed that an AI curriculum will be introduced across all federally controlled schools, extending its reach to regions such as Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Balochistan. This initiative is designed to equip students with essential skills that align with global technological advancements.
A particularly exciting aspect of the investment is the introduction of 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships in AI by 2030. This move aims to cultivate world-class research capabilities within Pakistan, ensuring that the nation remains competitive on an international scale. Additionally, the government plans to train one million non-IT professionals in AI skills, focusing on enhancing productivity and improving livelihoods across various sectors.
The Prime Minister voiced his optimism that these initiatives would be game changers for Pakistan’s tech landscape, enabling the country to transition from having IT technicians to skilled AI experts. This sentiment was echoed by Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal, who noted that Pakistan is positioning itself to lead in emerging technologies. Exciting projects, such as the Quantum Valley initiative—modeled after Silicon Valley—are set to create innovation ecosystems with specialized science parks dedicated to emerging technologies, biosciences, and more.
Moreover, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted that this year marks a significant milestone as it has been one year since the rollout of the national AI policy launched in September 2025. The overarching goal is to shape AI in a manner that aligns with Pakistan’s national priorities and values.
As Pakistan takes these monumental steps towards embracing AI, there’s no doubt that the collective effort will not only drive economic growth but also empower the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. If you’re interested in learning more about how these developments can shape both the tech landscape and provide opportunities for professionals, consider exploring resources like Pro21st for insights and networking opportunities.
