Pakistan Announces One Billion Dollar Artificial Intelligence Investment Plan by 2030

Published: 9 Feb 2026

Islamabad: Pakistan has unveiled an ambitious national roadmap to accelerate artificial intelligence development, with the federal government committing to invest one billion dollars in AI by the year 2030. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the opening session of Indus AI Week 2026 in Islamabad.

The week long technology event has been positioned as Pakistan’s flagship platform for artificial intelligence, bringing together policymakers, researchers, investors, startups and global partners to shape the country’s digital future.

Building a National AI Ecosystem

Addressing the ceremony, the prime minister said the planned investment would lay the foundation for a sustainable AI ecosystem focused on innovation, research and workforce development. He emphasized that artificial intelligence would play a central role in economic growth, governance reforms and global competitiveness.

The government aims to ensure that AI education and opportunities are not limited to major cities. According to the prime minister, special attention will be given to underserved regions including Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.

AI Education and Workforce Development

As part of the long term strategy, the government plans to introduce artificial intelligence courses across the national education system, extending from federally administered schools to regional institutions.

In addition, Pakistan will fund advanced research and large scale skills training to prepare its workforce for the digital economy.

Key Takeaways from the Announcement

One billion dollars to be invested in artificial intelligence by 2030
AI curriculum to be introduced in schools across Pakistan and allied regions
One thousand fully funded PhD scholarships in artificial intelligence
Nationwide training program for one million non-IT professionals
Focus on agriculture, mining, industry, and women’s empowerment through AI

Focus on Youth and Economic Transformation

The prime minister highlighted that nearly sixty percent of Pakistan’s population consists of young people, describing them as the country’s most valuable asset. He said the government’s goal is to transition existing IT workers into highly skilled AI professionals capable of competing globally.

artificial intelligence, he noted, could dramatically improve agricultural productivity, industrial efficiency and public service delivery while creating new employment opportunities.

National AI Policy and Current Challenges

Pakistan approved its National AI Policy in mid 2025 with objectives including improved public services, expanded innovation and inclusive access to emerging technologies. However, progress on full implementation has been slow due to administrative restructuring and coordination gaps with provincial governments.

Officials say Indus AI Week represents an initial step toward building awareness and readiness as the policy moves toward broader execution.

AI as a Global Game Changer

Speaking at the event, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal described artificial intelligence as a transformative force surpassing previous technological revolutions. He said modern economies now compete on intelligence, data and innovation rather than traditional resources.

Meanwhile, the IT minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between universities, government institutions and international technology companies. She confirmed that work is underway on a nationwide digital master plan to guide Pakistan’s long term transformation.

Looking Ahead

The government has positioned artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s future development strategy. With planned investments in education, research and workforce upskilling, officials believe the country is preparing to take its place in the global AI driven economy.