Pakistan has officially unveiled a major national artificial intelligence initiative, Indus AI Week 2026, signalling a concerted government effort to translate its national AI policy into widespread practical adoption and secure its position within the global technology landscape.
The announcement was made on Friday by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, who confirmed the flagship event is scheduled to run from 9 to 15 February.
Organised by the IT Ministry through a public-private partnership, the week-long platform aims to convene diverse stakeholders including government officials, industry leaders, academics, and entrepreneurs. The stated objectives are to bolster AI awareness, develop national capabilities, and foster responsible and practical implementation of the technology across various economic sectors.
The programme for the week includes a national technology showcase, sessions designed to connect startup founders with potential investors, and skills training opportunities for both students and professionals. An experiential AI and gaming arena, alongside other public engagement activities, is also planned to demystify the technology for a broader audience.
In her announcement, Minister Khawaja emphasised the government”s commitment to moving from policy dialogue to concrete action. “With the introduction of Pakistan’s National AI Policy last year, we laid the foundation for responsible and inclusive AI development,” she stated. “Indus AI Week reflects our determination to take that work further by moving beyond dialogue and toward adoption.”
The minister added, “By connecting policy, industry, and talent, this initiative positions Pakistan as a credible participant in the global AI ecosystem. We invite international partners, investors, and innovators to engage with Pakistan’s growing AI landscape.”
Scheduled events will commence with the Indus AI Summit at the Jinnah Convention Center in Islamabad on 9 February. An Innovation, Learning and Engagement Arena will run at the Islamabad Sports Complex on 9-10 February. Throughout the week, various universities, companies, and public institutions nationwide will host associated activities under the Indus AI Week banner.
The initiative is being presented as a signal of Pakistan’s intent to integrate artificial intelligence as a key component of its national development strategy and its efforts in international technological cooperation.