The federal minister for IT has inaugurated an Artificial Intelligence 101 module at the Civil Services Academy, marking a significant step in integrating AI training into the civil services curriculum. This initiative is part of the government’s broader Digital Nation Vision and aligns with the Digital Nation Pakistan Act, which the minister described as a governance reform framework rather than merely a technology policy.
Speaking to a special batch of civil service candidates at the academy, which included 52 probationary officers from Balochistan and 56 from Sindh, the minister emphasized the importance of this training. The AI module was developed through collaboration among the Ministry of IT and Telecom, the Planning Commission, the Civil Services Academy, and atomcamp, a learning platform.
The minister noted that the National Artificial Intelligence Policy strongly emphasizes building human capacity within government institutions. By introducing AI training at the academy, the government aims to prepare future civil servants for the responsible and effective use of emerging technologies. This initiative is critical to ensuring that public servants are equipped to navigate the complexities brought about by rapid technological advancements.
The training program consisted of a two-day intensive course for 150 probationary officers, covering a range of topics including AI fundamentals, prompt engineering, administrative and research applications, productivity tools, and ethical considerations. In addition, a training-of-trainers program has been completed, preparing 30 faculty members from various civil service training institutions to serve as master trainers.
With the incorporation of AI training into the Civil Services Academy curriculum, the minister announced that all future batches of civil servants will receive structured instruction in artificial intelligence. Plans to expand the partnership with atomcamp to cover more advanced AI modules were also indicated, highlighting the commitment to enhancing the skill set of civil servants in this critical area.
In discussing broader digital reforms, the minister pointed out that the federal government has successfully achieved 100 percent e-Office adoption across 38 of 39 divisions. This transition has significantly reduced file processing times from 25 to 30 days down to just four days. The minister underscored that providing affordable high-speed internet, supported by strong cybersecurity measures and AI capabilities, is central to Pakistan’s digital strategy.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the federal minister, expressed her gratitude towards the Civil Services Academy and its partners for their collaboration. She outlined plans to extend AI training to mid-career and senior officers, ensuring that capacity-building initiatives are aligned with emerging AI governance and data protection frameworks.
This initiative is part of the broader Digital Nation Pakistan legislation introduced in the National Assembly in December 2024. The proposed legislation aims to create a national framework for digitization across the economy, governance, and society. Among other provisions, the bill calls for the establishment of a National Digital Commission, which will be chaired by the Prime Minister and include chief ministers and heads of key regulatory bodies. This commission is tasked with overseeing Pakistan’s digital transformation and guiding investments in digital infrastructure.
The introduction of AI training at the Civil Services Academy reflects a significant shift towards modernizing government operations and enhancing public service delivery through technology. As the country moves forward with its digital agenda, the emphasis on education and training in AI will likely play a crucial role in shaping a more efficient and responsive civil service.
See also
UK Government Calls Musk’s Grok AI Image Edit Policy “Insulting” to Abuse Victims
Lenovo to Manufacture and Export AI Servers from India, Boosting Local Tech Ecosystem
AI Technology Enhances Road Safety in U.S. Cities
China Enforces New Rules Mandating Labeling of AI-Generated Content Starting Next Year
AI-Generated Video of Indian Army Official Criticizing Modi’s Policies Debunked as Fake
