#Innovation

Meta AI announces Urdu language support

Meta AI announces Urdu language support
Meta AI announces Urdu language support 1000 667 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan has taken a major step toward digital innovation. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), in partnership with Meta, has launched the Artificial Intelligence Education and Government Digital Transformation Program.

The initiative will strengthen AI education, digital literacy, and public sector innovation across the country. It aligns with the Prime Minister’s Digital Nation Vision, which aims to make Pakistan a technology-driven society.

The launch event, “Future in Focus: AI and Innovation,” held in Islamabad, brought together experts from government, academia, and industry. Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the government is committed to creating a tech-empowered Pakistan where every citizen benefits from innovation.

Meta AI Adds Urdu Language Support

One of the most exciting announcements was the introduction of Urdu support in Meta AI under the project named “Alif.” This feature allows users to communicate with Meta AI in both Urdu and English.

This milestone makes technology more accessible to millions of Pakistanis. It helps them engage, learn, and innovate in their own language.

Sarim Aziz, Director of Public Policy for South and Central Asia at Meta, said:

“Meta is proud to support Pakistan’s vision for AI-driven growth. By adding Urdu, we’re helping more people connect and engage with technology in meaningful ways.”

This update promotes linguistic inclusion and strengthens Pakistan’s journey toward digital inclusion.

Empowering Academia Through AI Education

Meta and MoITT are also working to expand AI literacy in Pakistan’s education sector. Together with HEC, NCEAC, and Atomcamp, they launched an AI Literacy Program earlier this year.

The program trains 350 non-computer science faculty members from universities nationwide. It ensures that AI education reaches students from all disciplines, not just technology.

Fizza Amjad, CEO of Atomcamp, said the initiative creates a “ripple effect” by empowering teachers and students alike. This collaboration builds an AI-ready academic ecosystem that supports innovation across all fields.

AI Innovation for Digital Governance

Meta also introduced a localized version of its guide titled “Transforming Public Sector Innovation in Asia Pacific with Llama,” created with Deloitte.

The guide explains how open-source AI models like Llama can help governments improve data management, public service delivery, and digital governance. It also promotes transparency and efficiency in administrative systems.

With these tools, Pakistan’s public sector can streamline operations and better serve citizens.

A Milestone in Pakistan’s Digital Journey

The new AI Education and Digital Transformation Program shows Pakistan’s growing commitment to technological progress. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja called the inclusion of Urdu in Meta AI a “significant step” toward national digital empowerment.

She reaffirmed that Pakistan will continue to invest in AI innovation, digital governance, and inclusive growth to build a smarter and stronger economy.

Key Highlights

  • Meta AI now supports Urdu, promoting language inclusivity.
  • AI literacy programs launched for university faculty nationwide.
  • Llama AI guide introduced to modernize Pakistan’s public sector.
  • Meta and MoITT partnership strengthens Pakistan’s digital future.

Conclusion

The partnership between Meta AI and Pakistan’s Ministry of IT marks a turning point in the country’s digital evolution. With Urdu language support and a strong focus on AI education, Pakistan is moving closer to becoming a digitally empowered nation where innovation benefits everyone.

Pakistan Expands IT Infrastructure with 43 Technology Parks

Pakistan Expands IT Infrastructure with 43 Technology Parks
Pakistan Expands IT Infrastructure with 43 Technology Parks 930 500 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan’s IT sector is experiencing rapid growth, thanks to the government’s latest initiatives aimed at expanding technology infrastructure. In particular, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), under the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), has successfully developed 43 Software Technology Parks (STPs) nationwide. These tech hubs not only enhance IT exports but also foster innovation and create vital employment opportunities.

Boosting IT & ITeS Growth

Currently, the newly established STPs accommodate over 350 IT and IT-enabled Services (ITeS) firms, providing employment to approximately 18,000 professionals across 1.9 million square feet of workspace. Notably, a significant achievement is the growing inclusion of women in the workforce, now making up 20% of employees in these technology hubs.

Key Locations and Economic Impact

Between FY2022-24, these IT parks were strategically established in major and emerging cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Faisalabad, Quetta, Sialkot, and Swat. As a result, the parks collectively generate around $100 million in foreign exchange annually and contribute $15 million to the local economy.

Major IT Parks in Karachi & Islamabad

To further strengthen Pakistan’s ICT sector, two large-scale IT parks are currently under development:

  • Karachi IT Park – A $186 million facility spanning 1.12 million square feet is set to be operational by 2027. Consequently, this park is expected to create 13,400 jobs and boost IT exports by $90 million.

  • Islamabad IT Park – Scheduled for completion in 2025, this $88.4 million project covers 720,000 square feet and aims to generate 7,500 jobs while contributing an additional $70 million to IT exports.

E-Rozgaar Centres & Digital Economy Growth

Moreover, as part of its broader digital transformation strategy, the government plans to establish 250 e-Rozgaar centres by 2027 under the Prime Minister’s Initiatives—Support for Startups, Specialised IT Trainings, and Venture Capital program. These centres will play a crucial role in equipping aspiring professionals with essential digital skills, thereby supporting Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem.

Why This Matters

Collectively, these initiatives bring multiple benefits, including:

  • Enhanced IT Infrastructure – Providing a world-class work environment for tech firms.

  • Job Creation – Generating thousands of new employment opportunities in the IT sector.

  • Increased IT Exports – Strengthening Pakistan’s position in the global digital economy.

  • Empowering Women – Promoting the inclusion of women professionals in the workforce.

D. I. Khan New City’s Visionary Technology Park

Meanwhile, adding to Pakistan’s growing IT infrastructure, D. I. Khan New City is developing a state-of-the-art Technology Park in collaboration with NUST and NUTECH. This initiative aligns perfectly with the city’s vision of fostering innovation and tech-driven growth. The upcoming technology park will offer modern facilities for startups, IT companies, and research institutions, creating a hub for advancements in software development, artificial intelligence, and digital solutions. As a result, D. I. Khan New City is positioning itself as a future-ready player in Pakistan’s digital transformation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the establishment of 43 technology parks and the development of two major IT parks in Karachi and Islamabad mark significant milestones for Pakistan’s IT industry. With sustained government investment and progressive policies, the country is on track to becoming a regional technology hub. As the sector flourishes, businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals can look forward to exciting opportunities in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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