AI for the future

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a knowledge-driven, AI-focused economy at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, while also highlighting Pakistan’s aim to be a player in artificial intelligence, education, and healthcare. The prime minister would like not only to join the ranks of global innovators but to engage in meaningful collaborations with like-minded partners like Saudi Arabia. At FII, popularly called ‘Davos in the Desert’, PM Shehbaz outlined AI as more than a trend. It is true indeed that embracing AI with a view to nurturing skilled engineers, scientists, and developers is promising; however, it requires a commitment from both the state and the private sector to not only allocate resources but to also address the critical issues of digital infrastructure, workforce training, and data accessibility. AI will not deliver on its potential unless we cultivate a capable workforce, with robust foundational support and equal opportunity.

The call for global partnerships is important. In a world where AI can, in theory, address everything from misinformation to climate resilience, Pakistan’s role remains highly dependent on collaborative frameworks. Partnerships, particularly with tech-driven nations and innovative investors, will be essential to acquiring the skills and technology necessary for meaningful AI application. By aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Pakistan can position itself as a regional player in the tech and knowledge economy. Such partnerships, however, must transcend rhetoric to tangible joint projects that actively involve Pakistani talent and ensure technology transfer and capacity-building across the board. Initiatives like the Daanish Schools and the Education Endowment Fund reflect the belief that education is the ‘true equalizer’ for Pakistan. For this, Pakistan must intensify reforms and provide adequate resources to bring technology into classrooms nationwide. The scale of ambition requires that education and training institutions actively equip graduates with practical, industry-aligned skills in data science, AI, and robotics, preparing them to take on tomorrow’s challenges.

In healthcare, AI offers promising applications, from predictive diagnostics to personalised medicine. However, AI in healthcare necessitates significant investment and regulatory frameworks to maintain patient privacy and ethical use of technology. Prime Minister Shehbaz’s emphasis on collaboration reflects the broader interconnected nature of today’s challenges. To truly engage in a global knowledge-based economy, Pakistan needs a stable and peaceful environment. Human advancement does not thrive in conflict zones, and genuine partnerships are rooted in the shared aspiration for peace and prosperity. Pakistan’s AI journey is both an ambitious and complex endeavour. Whether Pakistan can transform itself into a knowledge-based economy depends on sustained political will, resource allocation, educational reforms, and the ability to attract partnerships that are both equitable and empowering. With careful planning and clear prioritisation, we can build a future that resonates with innovation, resilience, and shared prosperity.