Muhammad Asad Tahir Bhawana

The Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication has framed the National Artificial Intelligence Policy to promote its widespread adoption by raising awareness about it, prioritising privacy concerns, enhancing the skills of workforce, guiding investments in research and development, and ensuring the ethical use of AI. The policy is designed to address socioeconomic challenges and mitigate potential risks associated with AI implementation. Under the policy, the Ministry of IT & Telecom is dedicated to achieving the Digital Pakistan Vision by fostering a culture of innovation and embracing cutting-edge technologies like AI. The National AI Policy will play a crucial role in transforming Pakistan into a knowledge-based economy by providing a national strategy for AI adoption and establishing an ecosystem to ensure responsible AI use. 

According to the Ministry of IT & Telecom, Pakistan has a unique opportunity to leverage digital disruption and empower its young population, driving the nation towards sustainable growth and improved citizen livelihoods. Recognising the potential of AI as the next frontier of technological progress, the ministry has conducted extensive consultations with stakeholders and analysed the global perspective to formulate a developmental roadmap for responsible AI adoption in the country. The National AI Policy aims to promote better, faster and more responsible AI implementation to benefit people in the long term. The policy document includes various developmental initiatives to raise awareness and encourage adoption, promote transparent and fair use of personal data with AI, and foster innovation through collaborations between industry and academia, as well as investments in AI-led initiatives.

The key attributes of the AI policy are evidence-based and target-oriented decision-making, a user-centric and forward-looking approach, and an overarching and objective framework. To achieve these goals, the policy focuses on balanced interventions on both the demand and supply sides of the market. On the demand side, the policy seeks to enable the AI market by establishing research and innovation centres for developing, testing, deploying and scaling AI solutions. This also involves addressing governance issues and managing the impact of AI. Additionally, the responsible use of AI is emphasised to generate economic gains and improve public services, enhancing the government's ability to deliver anticipatory and personalised services.

The policy also concentrates on creating awareness and readiness for AI, ensuring that Pakistan's workforce is equipped with the necessary skills and competencies to participate in the AI-driven economy. Furthermore, the policy aims at transforming sectors and industries to effectively utilise AI, facilitated by national IT boards that promote awareness and offer training programmes through sectoral cooperation. In conclusion, the National AI Policy presents a comprehensive approach to harnessing the potential of AI for the country's development. By fostering a responsible and inclusive AI ecosystem, Pakistan aims to advance its global competitiveness while ensuring that AI's benefits are accessible to all citizens, contributing to a brighter and more prosperous future.

Credit: INP-WealthPk