Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a landmark national initiative to invest $1 billion in artificial intelligence by 2030, signaling a major shift in Pakistan’s approach to technology-driven growth. The announcement reflects the government’s ambition to prepare the country for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.
The prime minister shared the vision while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of Indus AI Week in Islamabad. Addressing policymakers, tech leaders, and academics, he emphasized that artificial intelligence will play a central role in shaping Pakistan’s economic future and global competitiveness.
According to the prime minister, the proposed investment will focus on building a comprehensive AI ecosystem that spans education, industry, governance, and research. He noted that Pakistan can no longer afford to remain on the sidelines as artificial intelligence transforms economies around the world.
The initiative aims to strengthen technological infrastructure, encourage innovation, and support local talent in emerging digital fields. Government officials believe that targeted investment in AI can help boost productivity, improve public services, and create high-value employment opportunities for young professionals.
Education is a key pillar of the plan. PM Shehbaz announced that the government intends to introduce a structured AI curriculum across the country. This initiative will not be limited to federally administered schools but will also extend to Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and underserved regions of Balochistan.
By expanding access to AI education in remote and less-developed areas, the government hopes to reduce the digital divide and ensure that talent from all regions can participate in the future economy. The prime minister stressed that inclusive growth is essential for sustainable national development.
He further highlighted the importance of equipping students with practical, future-ready skills rather than relying solely on traditional learning models. According to him, artificial intelligence, data science, and emerging technologies must become core components of modern education.
The investment plan also envisions collaboration with the private sector, universities, and international technology partners. Such partnerships are expected to accelerate research, foster innovation, and help Pakistan adopt global best practices in AI development and regulation.
Industry experts attending Indus AI Week welcomed the announcement, calling it a timely move as countries across the region race to integrate AI into their economic strategies. Many believe that a clear national roadmap, backed by sustained funding, could position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global AI landscape.
PM Shehbaz reiterated that artificial intelligence is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic necessity. He noted that countries investing early in AI will lead in productivity, governance efficiency, and innovation over the coming decades.
As Pakistan looks toward 2030, the $1 billion AI investment plan represents a long-term commitment to digital transformation. If implemented effectively, it could help reshape education, strengthen the economy, and prepare the country’s youth for leadership roles in a technology-driven world.
