Pakistan plans to introduce AI lessons in primary schools to help young students develop digital skills for the future. The announcement was made on Monday by Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja during a press briefing.
Artificial Intelligence is being introduced at the primary level. Our children will now move forward with AI literacy from an early age.
This move shows a strong effort to include new technologies in the country’s education system. Pakistan joins a few nations working to prepare students for the fast-changing digital world.
Major Curriculum Overhaul Underway
Minister Fatima said the government is updating the national curriculum to include 21st-century skills. This update will make AI and IT subjects core parts of education at all levels.
A dedicated committee, formed under the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is working to ensure that IT education becomes an essential part of our students’ learning journey.
The new curriculum will include simple AI lessons, activities centered on digital problem solving, and basic coding and automation tools at the primary level.
Accountability for Failing IT Universities
Shaza Fatima also criticized some universities for poor job prospects for their graduates. She stressed the need for strict reviews of universities that produce students lacking hands-on skills.
Universities whose IT graduates are not getting jobs must face accountability. There has to be a system of reward and punishment.
She called on the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to cut funding from poorly performing institutions. She said, “We cannot keep funding universities that don’t help build our digital future.”
Why AI Education at the Primary Level Matters
Pakistan has many talented young people waiting to be discovered. Starting AI education early could give everyone better access to technology. It can also promote innovation and prevent the country from falling behind globally. Countries like China, the UAE, and South Korea have already started similar programs. Introducing AI early aims to close the digital gap, boost STEM studies, and create a workforce ready for the future.
The government believes that teaching AI from the start can help students improve their critical thinking, reasoning, and understanding of data skills needed in many jobs today.
While many welcome this change, some experts and tech workers worry about the state of schools, especially in rural and poor areas. Challenges include a shortage of trained teachers in AI and IT, limited access to the internet and computers, and differences between regions. These issues could slow down progress toward the goal.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.