AI in Punjab: How Youth Will Lead the Change

News Desk 

Lahore: Punjab is betting big on artificial intelligence to transform governance, create jobs, and boost the economy. 

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the province’s first comprehensive AI roadmap, aiming to make Punjab the leading AI hub in South Asia by 2029. 

Officials claim the initiative could generate over 100,000 new jobs within three years and increase the economy by 5–10 percent.

The plan is not just about technology, it’s about revolutionizing daily life for citizens. A dedicated Artificial Intelligence Delivery Unit, personally supervised by the Chief Minister, will bring AI into government departments, making administrative work faster, more transparent, and citizen-friendly.

Information Minister Azma Bukhari said a technical advisory board of top experts will guide the implementation. The roadmap rests on six pillars: AI infrastructure, modernizing administration, citizen services, youth job skills, economic growth, and governance.

For youth, free AI training programs are already underway. “AI curriculum has started in 100 schools and will expand to 150 more from April,” Bukhari said.

Health services will get an AI-driven app providing instant guidance, and environmental challenges like smoke control will be tackled with AI systems.

Four specialized teams will oversee projects, data management, strategy, and coordination. Key milestones include: governance policy in July, urban portal and global tech partnerships in August, health app in September, smoke control system in October, and a farmers’ board operational by November.

“This roadmap will not only make the government smarter but also create opportunities for youth, simplify citizens’ lives, and drive Punjab’s economy to new heights,” Bukhari added.

Punjab’s AI initiative is shaping up to be a bold model of technology-driven governance in South Asia, blending innovation with economic growth and citizen empowerment.