akistan has made progress in adopting AI since 2018 through the launch of the Presidential Initiative for Artificial Intelligence and Computing. Government endeavours like the Pakistan Artificial Intelligence Initiative (PAII) and regulatory frameworks are steering AI adoption.

Challenges like data privacy, algorithmic bias and regulatory hurdles are recognised, emphasising the need for ethical AI systems, transparency and policies to manage societal impacts. Opportunities for innovation in diverse industries are highlighted with examples of Pakistani companies gaining competitive advantages through AI. Lately, some political parties have incorporated AI technology into their rallies, signifying an evolution in their strategies in line with contemporary trends.

Future outlooks predict substantial AI growth, anticipating a potential addition of $150 billion to Pakistan’s GDP by 2030. In the developing world, artificial intelligence has become an integral part of daily life, present in everything from virtual assistants to recommendation systems. However, there’s considerable untapped potential for AI, particularly in humanitarian applications, especially in developing countries with limited resources.

Pakistan could specially benefit from emergency response. AI-powered predictive models for disaster relief aid first responders could analyse vast amounts of data from various sources like social media, enabling timely reconstruction efforts and supply distribution.

In agriculture, AI can assist farmers in making precise predictions for planting and harvesting, reducing pesticide use by targeting infected plants and enhancing crop monitoring. Education is another critical area benefiting from AI, especially in areas lacking experienced teachers and resources. AI-driven personalised learning tools make tutoring and educational resources accessible to all students, bridging education gaps and allowing students to learn independently.

While AI’s initial use in Pakistan has targeted specific issues, ongoing advancements in machine learning promise solutions to more complex challenges. Embracing AI’s potential can positively impact disaster intervention, healthcare, education, agriculture and beyond, potentially mitigating poverty, malnutrition and pollution. Understanding both the strengths and limitations of AI within the context of Pakistan is crucial for creating tailored, localised solutions.

Artificial intelligence holds immense potential to enhance human intelligence and transform how we access services, create products and interact. In emerging markets, AI presents an opportunity to reduce barriers and costs for businesses, offering innovative models that can surpass conventional solutions and serve underserved populations. Given the increasing significance of technology-driven solutions in economic development, leveraging AI becomes pivotal in achieving goals like poverty alleviation and fostering shared prosperity.

AI applications have the potential to benefit those at the lower rungs of the income distribution by offering AI-as-a-service solutions accessible through mobile devices. The potential risks of AI notwithstanding, neglecting its opportunities might be even costlier.

Identifying development opportunities, AI can bolster productivity by automating core business processes and enhancing human capital development. The technology’s potential for productivity gains in businesses and its influence on various sectors like education, finance and pharmaceuticals can pave the way for innovation and infrastructure improvements in emerging markets.

While private sector initiatives primarily focus on micro-lending and utilise machine learning algorithms, constraints such as underdeveloped digital economies, scarce local AI expertise and limited government support hinder the widespread adoption of AI solutions. The lack of robust entrepreneurial ecosystems and requisite connectivity pose challenges, particularly for advanced AI applications.

Pakistan has seen an expansion in its IT industry, driven by a burgeoning startup culture, software development firms and innovative technology-based solutions.

The government has been taking initiatives to promote technology adoption and innovation programmes like the Presidential Initiative for Artificial Intelligence and Computing and the Pakistan Software Export Board. However, there is a need to reduce plagiarism and copy right infringement.

Rapid technological growth also presents challenges such as the digital divide, cyber-security threats, data privacy concerns and ensuring equal access to technological advancements across all segments of society.

The impact of technology on Pakistani society is multifaceted, affecting various aspects of daily life, business operations and societal interactions. While advancements bring about opportunities for progress and connectivity, they also necessitate a focus on addressing challenges to ensure equitable access and responsible use of technology for the betterment of society.

Pakistan’s future lies in fast-evolving AI landscape, which holds tremendous promise to reshape many sectors and advancing societal development. AI could significantly contribute to public welfare. For instance, AI-driven systems could offer early warnings and efficient resource allocation during disasters, optimise agriculture for enhanced yields and sustainable practices, improve healthcare accessibility through telemedicine and diagnostics, revolutionise education with personalised learning tools and aid in environmental monitoring and conservation efforts.

Fostering innovation and collaboration is crucial. This involves drafting a national AI roadmap, encouraging public-private partnerships for joint research and implementation, creating platforms for knowledge exchange, investing in AI-centric education and establishing open innovation ecosystems to facilitate collaboration among startups and established companies.

Responsible and ethical integration of AI is paramount. This includes establishing robust data privacy measures, addressing algorithmic biases, ensuring transparency in AI decision-making, promoting public awareness and dialogue and implementing ethical guidelines and regulations.

These ambitious yet achievable goals can hinge on Pakistan’s unique needs and priorities. By steering towards a robust AI ecosystem grounded in ethical standards, Pakistan can emerge as a global frontrunner in responsible AI development, contributing domestically and internationally. Achieving these goals will require sustained efforts, collaboration across sectors and a steadfast commitment from the government, private entities and the public alike.

By addressing the challenges and capitalising on its strengths, Pakistan can leverage technology to drive inclusive economic growth, social development, and a brighter future for its citizens.

The writer is an environmental engineer and visiting scientist at the University of Cambridge. He may be reached at Zarakbabar-santaclara@outlook.com