The federal government has officially approved the establishment of the National AI Fund, a major step toward supporting artificial intelligence technologies and digital transformation in Pakistan. According to official documents, 30 percent of Ignite’s Research and Development Fund will be reallocated to this new initiative, which aims to accelerate the growth of AI-based innovations across various sectors. The decision reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing the country’s technological landscape and building a future-ready digital economy.
As part of the broader national strategy, the government plans to launch multiple AI-focused programs under this fund. A key component involves the development of a nationwide network of AI Centers of Excellence, which will be located in major cities including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. These centers are expected to become focal points for AI research, development, and industry collaboration. By bringing together academic institutions, private companies, and startups, the centers will encourage cross-sector partnerships and boost the commercialization of locally developed AI solutions.
In addition to physical infrastructure, the National AI Fund also supports several financial initiatives to fuel innovation. Among them are the proposed AI Innovation Fund and a dedicated Venture Fund, which will focus on backing high-impact projects and new AI startups. These financing tools aim to fill critical gaps in funding and provide emerging companies with the resources they need to scale AI solutions that are both locally relevant and globally competitive.
To ensure that talent development keeps pace with technological advancements, the initiative also introduces a large-scale AI Skill Development Program. This program is designed to train approximately 200,000 individuals each year in AI technologies and related fields. Through a joint effort involving the Ministry of Education and Training, provincial governments, and private organizations, the program will offer certifications, technical education, and awareness sessions to build a stronger workforce capable of supporting Pakistan’s digital ambitions. Public-private partnerships are expected to play a key role in its successful rollout.
Further reinforcing the focus on experiential learning, the government also plans to implement a National High-Tech Internship Program. This initiative will give university students and early-career professionals hands-on exposure to advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence. By engaging youth in practical learning environments, the program seeks to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs.
Together, these developments align closely with the goals set out in the National AI Policy. The integration of funding, infrastructure, skill development, and research is intended to establish Pakistan as a competitive player in the global AI ecosystem. By supporting innovation and entrepreneurship while strengthening the technical workforce, the National AI Fund serves as a foundational step toward long-term digital capability building in the country.
