Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has announced that Pakistan’s first-ever national Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy is on the brink of official approval. Speaking at a seminar held at Quaid-i-Azam University, she emphasized the government’s dedication to swiftly implementing the finalized policy, which was developed after a full year of consultations with national and international stakeholders.
This is not just a document—it’s a roadmap to our future,the minister stated. Our main focus now is on execution. We want all sectors to actively contribute and help turn these ideas into real outcomes.
Focus Areas of the AI Policy
The minister urged experts, institutions, and industry professionals to thoroughly review and provide constructive feedback on the policy’s six core areas:
- Innovation
- Awareness
- Infrastructure
- AI Ethics and Safety
- Sectoral Adaptation
- Global Cooperation
Shaza Fatima reaffirmed that the ministry is welcoming input through emails and social media to ensure the policy is inclusive, forward-looking, and in alignment with global best practices.
Pakistan is Ready for the AI Revolution
Referring to Pakistan’s current position in the global digital landscape, the minister expressed confidence that the country has the potential to become a strong contender in emerging technologies.
We’re at a solid starting point,she said. If we work as a team and move beyond outdated mindsets, nothing can stop Pakistan from becoming a digital powerhouse.
Women in Tech: Not Optional, But Necessary
Shaza Fatima praised the notable attendance of women at the seminar and emphasized the need for greater female participation in technology and innovation.
No country can progress by leaving half its population behind,she said. Women’s inclusion is not just a talking point—it’s a necessity for sustainable growth.
She stressed that true national development is only possible when everyone—regardless of gender—has equal access to tools, training, and opportunities in the digital economy.
Youth-Centered Training & Employment Initiatives
One of the key highlights of her speech was the massive training programs already underway. Over 350,000 young Pakistanis have received digital and technical education through collaborations involving the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Ignite, NAVTTC, HEC, and global giants such as Google, Huawei, and Microsoft.
Our aim is very clear,said the minister. Every IT graduate should either have a job or the skills and support to launch their own startup.
She mentioned that significant financial resources have been allocated through the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) and other digital initiatives to support youth employment and skill development in AI and emerging technologies.
National Collaboration is the Key to Success
Despite the scale of these initiatives, the minister stressed that success cannot be achieved by the ministry alone. She called for cross-sector collaboration among universities, research centers, tech hubs, and private-sector players.
The Ministry of IT can’t do everything on its own, she noted. We need Centers of Excellence, innovation hubs, and educational institutions to step up. National cooperation is critical for development.
$700 Million in Digital Investment Through Global Forum
A major milestone highlighted during her speech was the first-ever Digital Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Forum hosted by Pakistan. The event attracted delegates from 45 countries, including ministers of information and communication technologies.
The forum, organized in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Digital Cooperation Organization, led to Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth $700 million—making it the largest digital investment event in Pakistan’s history.
Shaza Fatima urged local firms, startups, and innovation centers to take full advantage of international partnership opportunities. Funding is available,she said. You just need to be ready to collaborate.
Launch of the Pakistan Startup Fund for AI Innovation
Ending her speech on an optimistic note, the minister announced the launch of the Pakistan Startup Fund, a new government initiative dedicated to supporting AI-driven startups and early-stage tech companies.
This fund will be one of the largest platforms supported by the government to promote innovation, research, and product development in Pakistan,she said. The goal is to help startups get to market faster and become globally competitive.
As the AI policy nears official approval, Pakistan appears ready to embrace a digital future—one powered by inclusion, innovation, and international cooperation. With a strong commitment from the government, backed by training, funding, and global engagement, Pakistan is poised to emerge as a leading AI and digital economy in South Asia.
