KARACHI: Pakistan is planning to launch 20,000 online artificial intelligence (AI) training programmes under a nationwide initiative aimed at preparing millions of young professionals, graduates and freelancers for the rapidly evolving global digital economy.
The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT) said the programmes would be introduced through an advanced learning management system under the National AI Advancement Initiative (NAIAI).
The courses, expected to run between six and 12 months, will target fresh graduates, government officials, teachers, freelancers and professionals from various industries.
According to the ministry, the initiative seeks to position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global AI sector by promoting innovation, improving workforce capabilities and strengthening AI governance in sectors including healthcare, agriculture, education and industry.
The planned certification programmes will focus on areas such as machine learning, deep learning and AI ethics. AI literacy courses are also expected to be offered to civil servants and corporate leaders.
Software and AI expert Asim Tausif Khan said Pakistan currently holds less than one percent of the global IT market but could significantly expand its position through AI-driven skill development and infrastructure upgrades.
He noted that Pakistan’s large youth population provides strong potential for building a globally competitive digital workforce, particularly for international markets including Gulf countries.
The National AI Policy 2025 aims to train one million individuals by 2030, alongside developing AI trainers, internships and advanced research scholarships to support long-term technological growth.
