Pakistan to invest $1bn in Artificial Intelligence sector by 2030

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the federal government will invest $1 billion in Pakistan’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector by 2030, aiming to build a future-ready digital economy and empower the country’s youth.

Addressing the inaugural session of Indus AI Week, the prime minister said the investment would be used to develop a strong and inclusive AI ecosystem across the country.

He revealed that AI will be introduced into the curriculum of all federally run schools, while 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships in artificial intelligence will be offered nationwide by 2030.

In a major skills initiative, the prime minister also announced the launch of a nationwide programme to train one million non-IT professionals in AI-related skills, with the goal of improving productivity and enhancing livelihoods across various sectors.

“We are recovering lost revenues through technology and equipping our young men and women with quality skills in agriculture, commerce and trade,” Shehbaz Sharif said.

Highlighting ongoing digital reforms, the prime minister referred to initiatives such as the laptop distribution programme for high-achieving students in Punjab, establishment of e-libraries in remote areas, introduction of e-stamp papers, and digitisation of land records in collaboration with the World Bank, which he said had helped reduce corruption.

He also noted that Pakistan’s first Safe City project and first IT university were established in Lahore. “We have learned from the past, and today Pakistan is ready to join the global community in AI-driven transformation,” he added.

Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja said Indus AI Week aims to strengthen collaboration between universities, government institutions and international technology companies, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to a digital revolution.

 She added that the Pakistan Digital Authority is preparing a nationwide digital master plan to guide future transformation.

Meanwhile, Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal said the world has entered an era where intelligence itself has become a key factor of production, with nations now competing on ideas, talent, data and technology rather than traditional commodities.

He described artificial intelligence as a greater disruptor than electricity or the internet, noting that Pakistan’s engagement with technology began more than two decades ago through early IT policies, the establishment of NADRA, and sustained investment in advanced human capital.