KARACHI — Pakistan’s leading software industry body, the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), has endorsed the government’s $1 billion artificial intelligence investment plan, signalling strong private-sector backing for the country’s long-term digital transformation strategy. The commitment was highlighted during Indus AI Week in Islamabad, where policymakers and industry leaders outlined national priorities for AI development through 2030.
The government’s initiative includes funding for 1,000 AI-focused PhD scholarships and a nationwide programme aimed at training one million non-IT professionals in advanced technology skills. The plan is designed to accelerate AI adoption across industries while strengthening Pakistan’s workforce capabilities and innovation ecosystem.
P@SHA emphasised that the technology sector is expected to play a central role in translating policy objectives into practical outcomes, particularly through export-led growth and innovation-driven business models. Industry representatives described artificial intelligence as a strategic necessity for maintaining global competitiveness and supporting economic sustainability.
The initiative comes at a time when Pakistan’s IT exports are showing strong momentum, reaching $2.2 billion during the first half of FY26, reflecting a 20 percent year-on-year increase. Policymakers view AI investment as a catalyst for further expansion of the technology sector, improved productivity, and increased foreign exchange earnings.
Indus AI Week brought together local and international technology companies, universities, and investors through technical bootcamps, industry discussions, and collaboration initiatives aimed at accelerating AI adoption and strengthening partnerships across the ecosystem. The broader strategy focuses on modernising digital infrastructure, attracting investment, and positioning Pakistan as a competitive player in emerging technologies.
