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ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (APP): Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Wednesday announced that the government is rolling out a Rs. 4.5 billion plan to train 7,200 professionals in semiconductor chip design, a major step toward strengthening Pakistan’s domestic semiconductor capabilities.
Speaking at the Margalla Dialogue 2025, themed “The Algorithmic War: How AI is Redefining Influence and Security,” Shaza said prime minister has initiated multiple multi-billion-rupee programs, including the ‘Inspire’ initiative, to develop national semiconductor expertise.
She added that public sector–funded high-tech training programs across the country already train over half a million young people annually, building critical human resources to prepare Pakistan for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
“Pakistan is focused on future-proofing its workforce by developing talent across both technology and non-technology sectors,” she said, emphasizing that these efforts are vital for the country’s competitiveness across industries.
Highlighting the global AI revolution, Shaza said the world has reached an inflection point where artificial intelligence is no longer solely about technology or economic efficiency. “AI has become a matter of national security, influencing global priorities and shaping future strategies,” she added.
She stressed that AI now has geostrategic implications, impacting every facet of national life. Technology, she noted, is transforming Pakistan’s economy, finance, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, making it central to the country’s future trajectory.
The minister underlined AI’s role as a pillar of national security, with cyber defense resilience at the forefront.
She called for proactive decision-making, predictive analysis, stronger threat intelligence, and international cooperation to safeguard against evolving digital threats.
Shaza emphasized the importance of collaboration among industry, academia, and the public sector to counter cyber risks.
She added that the Ministry has already laid the groundwork by establishing high-performance computing infrastructure, launching the National Artificial Intelligence Advancement Initiative, and supporting private-sector efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital security.