RAWALPINDI, Feb 11 (APP): The Government of Pakistan has placed artificial intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge technology in IT field at the center of national progress, emphasizing the need to equip young people with the skills and opportunities to compete on the global stage.
This was remarked by the Minister of State for Law and Justice, Barrister Aqeel Malik, during his address at a significant event titled “Automating the Backend: AI for Internal Ops & Customer Success” at National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT), Rawalpindi, on Wednesday.
The minister expressed confidence that Pakistan’s IT sector already surpasses many neighbouring countries in capabilities and skills in IT sector, and stressed that the real gap lies in fully owning and refining those skills.
“The government’s priority is to promote national-level platforms and initiatives that build self-confidence and self-reliance among the youth, enabling them to serve the country while advancing their own entrepreneurial and professional journeys”, he said.
Barrister Aqeel praised the professionalism and talent already present in Pakistan’s IT community, and underlined the urgent need to further sharpen and professionalize these skills. He appreciated the match-making efforts and the supportive platform provided to startups by NICAT, describing such national initiatives as a top government priority.
He emphasized that Pakistani youth are second to none in the world; what they need is belief in themselves and access to the right opportunities. He termed the ongoing AI week event, with both in-person and online participation from across the country, a valuable national platform.
Highlighting capacity building as essential for the future, he said the coming era belongs to AI and information technology. He commended the efforts of NICAT, the Ministry of Information Technology, and their partners for creating an enabling environment where Pakistani youth, sharing 68% of county’s population, can grow and excel in IT innovations.
The minister reviewed various startup desks and ongoing initiatives and was briefed about upcoming projects. He urged the participants to render their best skills during the week-long celebrations, as NICAT has provided space, facilities, and platforms with no demands attached, only the expectation that participants would use them to accelerate and succeed.
He congratulated all participants and startups, expressing confidence that their work will raise Pakistan’s name high and prove the true potential of a proud, patriotic Pakistani youth.