ISLAMABAD, Feb 25 (ABC): The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom (MoITT) has launched training for 10,000 government officials in artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen digital literacy across public sector institutions. The initiative forms a central part of the capacity-building strategy under the National AI Policy.
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the ministry has started specialized AI training workshops in collaboration with leading industry partners. These workshops aim to equip government officials with practical and future-ready AI skills. Through structured sessions, participants will learn how to apply artificial intelligence tools in governance and public administration.
Curriculum reform and teacher training included
Under the programme, MoITT has also initiated revisions in the student curriculum. The ministry is working with the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) to align academic content with the evolving demands of the AI era. This step aims to ensure that future graduates enter the workforce with relevant digital and AI competencies.
The initiative also covers educator training. More than 350 educators are already part of the capacity-building scheme. In addition, 650 teachers will receive training under the “training of trainers” model. This approach will expand outreach and ensure sustainable knowledge transfer within the education system.
Expansion of AI courses and professional upskilling
The National AI Policy also includes a digital skill expansion programme. Under this plan, authorities will introduce 25 new courses focused on prompt engineering and AI tools. The programme will also train 7,500 individuals under the cod4AI initiative, which emphasizes full-stack AI and deep learning skills.
Furthermore, the scheme targets the upskilling of 2,000 professionals by 2028. This structured roadmap aims to create a strong pipeline of AI talent across different sectors.
International collaboration and scholarships
The ministry will collaborate with international partners such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Meta, the United Nations, Huawei, and ZTE to support AI training programmes. These partnerships will enhance technical expertise and global exposure for participants.
China will also provide scholarships at 25 leading Chinese universities through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. This support will enable advanced AI studies and research opportunities for Pakistani students and professionals.
Strengthening governance through AI integration
The initiative seeks to improve decision-making, service delivery, and data management in government departments. Officials trained in AI will be able to automate routine processes, analyze large datasets, and design citizen-centric digital solutions.
By integrating artificial intelligence skills into the public sector, the ministry aims to promote innovation, efficiency, and transparency in governance. The programme will also build coordination among academia, industry, and government institutions.
Through sustained AI training and institutional readiness, Pakistan aims to move towards a knowledge-based digital economy driven by emerging technologies.