AI to become mandatory subject across all university degrees

The Higher Education Commission has directed universities nationwide to introduce artificial intelligence as a compulsory subject in all degree programmes.

According to the directive, both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes will be required to offer a mandatory three-credit-hour course in artificial intelligence. The commission stated that institutions may structure the course as a core requirement, an interdisciplinary offering, or a supporting subject integrated within relevant degree programmes.

The move follows recent policy signals from the federal government aimed at accelerating Pakistan’s digital transformation. Addressing the inauguration of Indus AI Week 2026 in Islamabad, Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan plans to invest $1 billion in artificial intelligence by 2030 to establish a comprehensive national AI ecosystem.

The prime minister also revealed that an AI curriculum would be introduced in all federally administered schools, as well as in educational institutions across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and remote areas of Balochistan. The initiative aims to equip young people with the skills needed to lead in an increasingly digital economy.

As part of the broader strategy, the government plans to award 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships in artificial intelligence by 2030 to strengthen advanced research and establish well-equipped national research centres. In addition, a nationwide training programme will seek to equip one million non-IT professionals with AI skills to enhance productivity and income opportunities.

Highlighting key sectors for AI deployment, the premier said the technology would be applied in agriculture, mining and minerals, and youth empowerment. He also sought to reassure startups and IT professionals, stating that government support would help transition traditional IT technicians into AI specialists.

According to the prime minister, these initiatives are expected to boost agricultural output, improve efficiency and quality, and drive innovation across industry, commerce, trade and women-led enterprises.