IT Minister Announces New AI Week. Pakistan has taken a major step toward embracing artificial intelligence at a national level as the Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, officially announced the launch of Indus AI Week 2026. The landmark technology initiative will run from 9 to 15 February 2026, positioning Pakistan as an emerging and responsible player in the global AI ecosystem.
Indus AI Week 2026: A National Platform for Artificial Intelligence
Indus AI Week 2026 is designed as a flagship, week-long national initiative aimed at promoting artificial intelligence awareness, skills development, innovation, and real-world adoption across Pakistan. The program seeks to bring together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, startups, and the general public under one unified platform.
Organised by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication through a strong public-private partnership model, the initiative reflects Pakistan’s growing commitment to future-ready technologies and digital transformation.
Unlike traditional tech conferences, Indus AI Week is structured as an open and inclusive movement, encouraging participation from students, professionals, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and international partners.
Why Indus AI Week 2026 Matters for Pakistan
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping economies, governance systems, education, healthcare, and industries worldwide. Indus AI Week 2026 aims to ensure Pakistan does not remain on the sidelines of this transformation.
The initiative focuses on four core objectives:
- Strengthening national awareness of artificial intelligence
- Building AI skills and technical capacity
- Encouraging responsible and ethical AI adoption
- Enabling practical, hands-on engagement across sectors
By aligning policy with industry needs and talent development, Indus AI Week supports Pakistan’s long-term digital growth and competitiveness.
Key Highlights of Indus AI Week 2026
The week-long program will feature a wide range of activities designed to move AI discussions beyond theory and into practical application.
National Technology Showcase
Leading technology companies, research institutions, and innovators will present AI-driven solutions tailored to Pakistan’s needs, including governance, education, healthcare, fintech, and agriculture.
Startup and Innovation Spotlights
Founders and early-stage startups will have the opportunity to connect with investors, mentors, and corporate partners, helping accelerate AI entrepreneurship and commercialization.
AI Skills Training and Certification
Students and professionals will benefit from structured training sessions, workshops, and certification opportunities aimed at building job-ready AI skills.
Gaming and Experiential AI Arena
Interactive exhibits and AI-powered experiences will help demystify artificial intelligence and make it accessible to the wider public.
Public Engagement and Learning Activities
Hands-on sessions, discussions, and demonstrations will allow citizens to explore how AI affects everyday life and future careers.
Minister Vision for AI Adoption in Pakistan
While announcing the initiative, Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized that Indus AI Week builds on the foundation laid by Pakistan’s National AI Policy introduced last year.
She stated that the country is now moving from policy discussions to real-world adoption, ensuring AI development remains inclusive, ethical, and growth-oriented. By connecting policymakers, industry leaders, and skilled talent, the initiative positions Pakistan as a credible and collaborative participant in the global AI landscape.
The minister also extended an invitation to international investors, innovators, and technology partners to engage with Pakistan’s rapidly growing AI ecosystem.
Indus AI Week 2026 Event Schedule and Venues
The week will officially begin with the Indus AI Summit on 9 February 2026 at the Jinnah Convention Center, bringing together national and international policymakers, industry experts, and technology leaders.
This will be followed by the Innovation, Learning, and Engagement Arena at the Islamabad Sports Complex on 9 and 10 February, featuring interactive exhibitions, startup showcases, and public-facing activities.
From 9 to 15 February, universities, private companies, public institutions, and ecosystem partners across Pakistan will host co-branded AI events under the Indus AI Week banner, extending participation beyond Islamabad to a nationwide scale.
Nationwide Impact and Collaboration
One of the defining features of Indus AI Week 2026 is its decentralized national approach. By encouraging institutions across the country to host their own AI-focused activities, the initiative ensures broader access, regional inclusion, and community-driven participation.
This approach helps:
- Expand AI learning beyond major cities
- Encourage university-industry collaboration
- Promote grassroots innovation and talent discovery
- Create long-term partnerships across sectors
Pakistan AI Future and Global Engagement
Indus AI Week 2026 sends a clear message that Pakistan views artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of national development, not just a niche technology. The initiative aligns with global trends where AI is driving productivity, innovation, and competitiveness.
By opening its doors to global collaborators, Pakistan aims to strengthen international partnerships, attract foreign investment, and showcase local talent on a global stage.
Conclusion
The announcement of Indus AI Week 2026 marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s digital journey. With strong leadership from the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, active public-private collaboration, and a clear focus on skills, innovation, and responsible adoption, the initiative highlights Pakistan’s readiness to embrace artificial intelligence at scale.
