Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has identified major barriers to expanding AI training across the country. These challenges include limited training facilities, poor internet connectivity, and a shortage of qualified instructors.
The ministry has also highlighted low public awareness of artificial intelligence as a key concern. These problems make it difficult for people in rural and underserved areas to access advanced technology education.
According to a ministry document, the government plans to improve access through regional training hubs and online learning programmes. It also intends to promote hybrid education, university partnerships, and targeted scholarships.
The proposed measures aim to increase participation in technology training. Special attention will be given to women and disadvantaged groups who face barriers to accessing these opportunities.
AI Policy Sets Major Training Targets
Under the AI Policy 2025, the government aims to train one million new and existing IT graduates. The target covers information technology and related fields over the next five years.
The policy also aims to train 10,000 instructors in emerging technologies by 2027. This initiative is intended to strengthen the workforce responsible for delivering advanced technology education.
However, expanding training opportunities will require improvements in internet access and educational facilities. A shortage of qualified trainers remains another challenge, particularly in remote communities.
Government Expands Digital Skills Programmes
The ministry is implementing several initiatives to develop digital skills across Pakistan. These include DigiSkills, Code4AI, the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative, and the AI SEEKHO Programme.
The AI SEEKHO Programme aims to train more than 100,000 people. Its focus includes artificial intelligence and natural language-based application development.
The ministry also provides training in cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, and software development. These programmes operate through its attached departments and executing agencies.
During fiscal year 2025-26, various DigiSkills courses delivered more than 900,000 training sessions. The figure highlights the scale of the country’s existing digital learning activities.
Meanwhile, Code4AI aims to train 7,500 people in AI-driven full-stack development. Its curriculum includes programming languages, machine learning, deep learning, blockchain, and quantum computing.
Ministry Considers New Steps to Improve Access
The ministry may conduct a nationwide assessment to identify underserved regions and priority skills. The findings would help officials prepare a phased expansion plan for the National AI Skills Programme.
Other proposed measures include specialised training pathways and stronger cooperation with national and international technology companies.
The ministry is also considering mobile training facilities and regional technology centres. These facilities could bring technology education closer to communities with limited training opportunities.
The proposed steps aim to reduce Pakistan’s digital divide and improve access to emerging technologies. Better connectivity, qualified instructors, and public awareness will remain important to expanding AI training nationwide.
In other related news also read Pakistan Approves Interest-Free Hajj Savings Plan
The success of these efforts will depend on how effectively training programmes reach underserved communities. The planned assessment could help identify where additional resources and support are needed.
