By T.M Awan
ISLAMABAD, Jun 30 (Alliance News): Experts have stressed the urgent need to empower Pakistan’s youth with the right skills, confidence, and opportunities to lead the country toward digital advancement and global technological recognition.
Speaking at the Alliance Tech Summit, held at the National Incubation Centre for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT), specialists from various technology domains called for a unified effort among policymakers, academic institutions, and the private sector to create a future-ready and inclusive digital ecosystem.
The summit, organized by the Alliance Good Governance Foundation, ” A Vision for Making Pakistan a Global Tech Hub.” It attracted national and international experts in artificial intelligence (AI), educational technology (edtech), cybersecurity, game development, and digital policymaking.
The consensus among the speakers was that Pakistan can no longer rely on donor-funded models; instead, it must pursue self-reliance, build investor trust, and develop its own digital economy.
Dr. Tariq Khan, Convener of Alliance Pakistan, delivered the keynote address. He emphasized that sustainable progress requires both digital and intellectual evolution.
He pointed out that by 2045, AI-powered agents that resemble human beings in appearance and cognitive ability will become common around the world. “Pakistan still has a long journey ahead to reach that level of innovation,” he remarked.
AI specialist Sheikh Abdul Qadir highlighted how artificial intelligence is reshaping the service sector at a rapid pace. He stressed the need for proper regulatory frameworks and quality standards in Pakistan to manage AI applications responsibly.
He warned, without regulation, the country risks falling behind or facing the misuse of emerging technologies.
Cybersecurity and geopolitical intelligence expert Ali Malik warned of increasing threats to data privacy and national security due to AI.
He encouraged local startups to offer internships to teenagers and students so they can gain practical exposure and digital skills early in life, helping them better prepare for the job market.
Edtech professional Ursala Waqar said that technology must be extended to out-of-school children and that digital progress must be inclusive.
She argued that grassroots-level issues need to be addressed for equitable digital development.
“If digital resources don’t reach children outside the school system, then we’re leaving a large portion of our future behind,” she explained.
Gull Zeba, a product development expert, raised concerns about Pakistan’s dependence on donor aid for tech growth. “If we equip youth with digital skills, do we have the systems in place to provide them with jobs?” she asked.
She emphasized the need to actively explore investment channels and develop sustainable job creation mechanisms.
Digital policy expert Raza Ahmad Sukhera advised youth to dream big and remain consistent in their efforts. He emphasized that long-term success in any digital venture is not possible without vision, discipline, and resilience.
“Short-term motivation fades. Vision and consistency are what lead to true transformation,” he said.
AI health tech expert Shahrukh Babar focused on the obstacles faced by foreign investors when entering the Pakistani market. He said that one of the key challenges is a lack of trust in local companies, which stems from a credibility gap.
He urged local entrepreneurs and companies to improve transparency and governance standards to build international investor confidence.
Khawar Naeem, an expert in gaming and app development, underlined the untapped potential of Pakistan in the global gaming industry. He noted that while the country has a large pool of young talent, what’s missing is structured planning and execution.
He urged a national-level strategy that supports developers and provides them with access to global gaming markets.
“Pakistan can become a major player in gaming if it gets its act together,” he stated.
Throughout the summit, the speakers reiterated that the youth of Pakistan are its most valuable asset. By empowering them with the right tools and opening up pathways for innovation and employment, Pakistan can become a leading player in the global digital economy.
They also stressed the importance of rebuilding global trust, ensuring transparent policies, and fostering partnerships that go beyond temporary aid.
The event concluded with a collective call to action — to invest in skills, create opportunities, and move towards a digital economy that reflects the creativity, talent, and resilience of Pakistani youth.
It was agreed that the time for digital transformation is now, and Pakistan must act decisively to shape its place on the global tech map.
