Muhammad Umar Waqqas
KARACHI: A study done by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) in 2023 found that the number of students enrolled in AI and ML-related courses grew by 45% between 2020 and 2023. This rise in interest generates a pipeline of qualified experts eager to contribute to the global AI and ML scenario. As the global landscape shifts towards artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), experts urge Pakistan to take proactive measures to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities within the IT sector. With a young, tech-savvy population and a growing pool of software engineers, the country stands at a pivotal moment to establish itself as a key player in the global tech arena. According to a report by the International Data Corporation (IDC), AI-related investments are projected to reach $110 billion globally by 2024.
Senior IT expert Sajid Manzoor says “In recent years, the demand for AI and ML solutions has surged, driven by industries seeking to enhance efficiency and drive innovation. Pakistan, with its untapped potential, can leverage this trend to transform its IT industry and create thousands of new jobs. To effectively harness this growth, experts emphasise the importance of education and skill development. Currently, Pakistan’s educational institutions are increasingly integrating AI and ML into their curricula.
Universities like the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) are launching specialised programs to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in these fields. However, more needs to be done. As a big number of students study at public sector universities funded and run by federal and provincial governments, this is the time that public sector universities such as University of Karachi, University of the Punjab should offer new courses for AI, ML and Data Science based on the latest & industry standard curriculum. As a tech entrepreneur and advocate for the IT sector. I must say that “We need to create an ecosystem that not only educates but also empowers students to become an entrepreneur
Sajid Manzoor stresses the utmost need of Government support and futuristic Policy Framework, he says “The Pakistani government has taken initial steps to support the IT industry, including tax incentives and grants for tech startups. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has also announced plans to establish a national policy aimed at promoting research and development in this sector. However, rather than solely emphasising traditional programming and software development, there should be a stronger focus on initiatives that harness the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning. By prioritising innovative solutions in these cutting-edge fields, Pakistan can better position itself in the global tech landscape. On the other hand, Stakeholders argue that a comprehensive strategy is needed. In my opinion “We require a long-term vision that aligns our educational outputs with industry needs,”. Investment in infrastructure, such as reliable internet access and data centres, is also crucial for facilitating AI advancements.”
“The startup ecosystem in Pakistan has been burgeoning, with several new companies focusing on AI and ML solutions. Recent success stories, such as healthcare tech startups using AI for diagnostic tools, illustrate the potential for innovation in the country. These startups not only contribute to economic growth but also help address local challenges through technology. As the global demand for AI and ML technologies continues to rise, Pakistan has a unique opportunity to position itself as a leader in the IT industry. By enhancing education, fostering innovation, and implementing supportive government policies, the country can harness the immense potential of its talented workforce. The time for action is now, as Pakistan gears up to embrace the future of technology and create a sustainable, competitive IT industry that can thrive in the age of AI and ML,” Senior IT expert Sajid Manzoor tells TFD.
