Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said that artificial intelligence (AI) is bringing major changes across different sectors and transforming the way people work and live.
Speaking at an event, she said the Prime Minister has announced a plan to train one million people in AI over the next three years.
She said Pakistan has approved its first-ever AI policy and emphasized the importance of developing AI systems that reflect Pakistan’s own needs and perspective. The minister noted that internet-related issues in the country were largely due to a shortage of spectrum, adding that the introduction of 5G services will help improve internet speeds and connectivity.
Shaza Fatima also revealed that discussions are underway with Google regarding expanding its presence in Pakistan. She said Google Chromebooks are now being manufactured in the country, while various training programmes for children are being offered free of cost.
To strengthen digital infrastructure, the government is laying submarine cables and has significantly increased available spectrum by auctioning 480 megahertz and expanding total spectrum availability from 270 to 750 megahertz. She added that 5G services have already been launched in major cities across Pakistan.
