Pakistan has announced the creation of a National Artificial Intelligence Fund (NAIF), a central feature of its newly unveiled National AI Policy. The initiative aims to transform the country’s education system, boost research, and prepare a workforce ready to compete in the global technology market.
The fund, managed through Ignite’s R&D resources, will provide financing for AI-focused projects within universities, support IT spin-offs, and strengthen collaboration between academia and industry. By channeling investments directly into education and research, the government hopes to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical innovation.
A major part of the plan is the establishment of Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (CoE-AI), with main hubs in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, and supporting branches in other cities. These centers will provide researchers and students access to advanced labs, high-performance computing infrastructure, and real-world testing facilities.
Alongside infrastructure, the initiative also emphasizes curriculum development. The CoE-AI will partner with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to embed AI education across schools, colleges, and universities. Training programs, internships, and certification courses with industry partners will prepare graduates for high-demand technology jobs and entrepreneurial ventures.
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While the vision is ambitious, the challenge lies in implementation. Pakistan’s education sector faces systemic issues of underfunding, uneven quality, and limited research capacity. For the NAIF to succeed, consistent investment, transparent governance, and long-term political commitment will be essential. If executed effectively, the initiative could set Pakistan on a path toward becoming a serious contender in the global AI economy. However, if mismanaged, it risks becoming yet another policy that raises expectations without delivering meaningful change.