Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on February 9, 2026, that Pakistan will invest $1 billion in artificial intelligence by 2030. The declaration came during the inauguration of Indus AI Week in Islamabad. This initiative aims to build a strong national AI ecosystem and position the country as a key player in the global digital economy.
Education and Youth Empowerment Drive AI Strategy
The government plans to introduce AI curriculum in all federally controlled schools, as well as in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and most parts of Balochistan.
PM Shehbaz emphasized preparing youth for leadership in the digital economy. Additionally, programs will transform IT technicians into AI experts. A nationwide effort will train one million non-IT professionals in AI skills to enhance productivity and livelihoods across sectors.
Research Boost and Strategic Partnerships
To strengthen research, the plan includes 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships in AI by 2030, aimed at creating a world-class research center. The announcement aligns with the implementation of Pakistan’s National AI Policy. It also follows recent talks with Saudi Arabia on tech talent collaboration, with praise for Pakistan’s high-quality AI professionals.
Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted new national centers for quantum computing, manufacturing, and nanotechnology starting this year, including the Quantum Valley project with specialized science parks. PM Shehbaz described Indus AI Week as a game-changer, affirming Pakistan’s readiness to partner globally in AI advancement.