Pakistan has taken a major step toward strengthening its digital future as the federal government moves to establish the country’s first-ever Artificial Intelligence Council. The initiative is aimed at guiding policy execution, funding priorities, and long-term development in the rapidly evolving AI sector.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom has initiated the formation process as part of efforts to operationalize the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025. Officials confirmed that the council will serve as the apex body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the national AI framework.
According to sources, the AI Council will play a central role in translating policy goals into actionable programs. It will help align public and private sector initiatives while ensuring responsible, inclusive, and ethical use of artificial intelligence across Pakistan.
The ministry has already invited nominations from a broad range of stakeholders. These include representatives from academia, the technology industry, civil society organizations, citizen advocacy groups, and strategic sectors such as healthcare and agriculture.
Officials revealed that most nominations have already been received, indicating strong interest from key segments of society. The remaining nominations are expected to be finalized shortly, after which the formal notification of the AI Council will be issued.
Once constituted, the council is expected to provide strategic direction on AI-related investments, research priorities, capacity building, and regulatory frameworks. It will also advise the government on funding allocation to support innovation, startups, and applied research in artificial intelligence.
The National AI Policy 2025 envisions artificial intelligence as a key driver of economic growth, public service delivery, and digital transformation. However, effective implementation requires coordinated oversight, which the newly proposed council is expected to provide.
Government officials say the council will help bridge gaps between policy design and execution by bringing together expertise from diverse fields. This multi-stakeholder approach is intended to ensure that AI development benefits both the public and private sectors while safeguarding public interest.
The inclusion of sectors such as healthcare and agriculture highlights the government’s intent to apply AI solutions to real-world challenges. From improving diagnostics and patient care to enhancing crop yields and resource management, AI is expected to play a transformative role.
Industry experts view the formation of the AI Council as a timely move, particularly as regional and global competition in artificial intelligence intensifies. A centralized advisory and oversight body could help Pakistan stay competitive while attracting investment and talent.
The council is also expected to focus on ethical considerations, data governance, and workforce development. Training and upskilling initiatives may be recommended to prepare Pakistan’s workforce for AI-driven changes in the job market.
While the exact structure and membership of the council have yet to be publicly disclosed, officials stress that transparency and inclusivity will be key guiding principles. Regular engagement with stakeholders is expected once the council becomes operational.
The establishment of Pakistan’s first AI Council marks a significant milestone in the country’s digital policy landscape. As the National AI Policy moves from planning to execution, the council is expected to play a decisive role in shaping how artificial intelligence contributes to national development.
