Govt to launch 7 National Ai Hubs in Pakistan
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) is launching the initiative under the National AI Policy Pakistan, which focuses on accelerating artificial intelligence development and expanding Pakistan’s digital economy.
Officials say the project is designed to create new opportunities for startups, researchers, students, and technology companies while preparing Pakistan for the growing global AI industry.
Seven cities selected for AI hubs
According to official documents, seven AI hubs will be established in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit.
Each centre will include modern office space, high-speed internet, advanced AI laboratories, research facilities, and collaborative workspaces.
These hubs will allow entrepreneurs, researchers, software engineers, and students to work together on innovative projects while receiving technical support and business guidance.
Officials believe these facilities will become important centres for technology development across Pakistan.
Read Also: Apple Upgrade launches: Lease iPhones, MacBooks and iPads with easy monthly payments
National AI Policy Pakistan to guide the project
The initiative is being introduced under the National AI Policy Pakistan, which aims to encourage innovation, improve research, and support businesses working with artificial intelligence.
The Ministry has already issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for establishing the AI hubs.
Initially, every hub will operate under a one-year agreement, with an option for extension based on performance and results.
Government officials say the project will be closely monitored to ensure transparency and effective implementation.
The National AI Policy Pakistan also promotes cooperation between government institutions, universities, and private technology companies.
Pakistan AI startups to receive major support
One of the biggest objectives of the programme is supporting Pakistan AI startups through funding and incubation.
The government plans to incubate around 560 AI startups over the next two years.
Around 150 promising startups will also receive seed grants to help convert innovative ideas into commercially successful businesses.
Officials say these grants will help entrepreneurs develop products, conduct research, and enter both local and international markets.
The selected Pakistan AI startups will also receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to venture capital firms and international technology organisations.
Authorities expect this support to encourage more young entrepreneurs to build AI-based companies in Pakistan.
Read Also: PM Shehbaz Sharif launches major robotics initiative with $20 million venture fund
AI solutions for key industries
The AI hubs will focus on solving challenges in several major sectors of the economy.
Priority sectors include:
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Education
- Financial technology (Fintech)
- Smart cities
Experts believe artificial intelligence can improve medical services, increase agricultural productivity, modernise classrooms, strengthen financial services, and improve urban planning.
Officials hope these projects will generate practical solutions that directly benefit people and businesses across Pakistan.
Greater opportunities for women and underserved communities
Officials say this approach will help ensure that artificial intelligence benefits communities throughout Pakistan instead of remaining limited to major urban centres.
Read Also:Pakistan’s largest data centre opens as PM Shehbaz unveils Sky47 AI cloud
Hackathons and training programmes planned
The initiative will also organise two national AI hackathons and four awareness sessions.
These events are intended to bring together students, developers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to exchange ideas and build innovative AI solutions.
The government believes these programmes will encourage collaboration while increasing public awareness of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Officials say future training programmes will also help develop a highly skilled workforce capable of competing in international technology markets.
