The Indus AI Week kicked off at Islamabad Sports Complex today, bringing together national and international AI and information technology companies on a single platform to promote collaboration and align artificial intelligence policy direction.

The initiative, taken by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications, aims to accelerate AI adoption, strengthen talent development, encourage startups, and position Pakistan in the global AI ecosystem.

It also seeks to provide a unified national mechanism connecting policy, skills, industry, and innovation through structured engagement across institutions.

The week-long programme features the Indus AI Summit, focusing on high-level dialogue, international engagement, and national direction-setting.

An Innovation Learning and Engagement Arena has also been established, bringing together startups, industry leaders, students, and technology enthusiasts in a large-scale interactive environment.

Universities, companies, and institutions from across the country are participating through aligned activities under the Indus AI Week umbrella.

In an exclusive interview with Radio Pakistan Correspondent Shehzad Ghauri, Director Pakistan Software Exports Board Dr. Zunaira Saqib said artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing governance, economic competitiveness, workforce development, and public service delivery.

She said the government is organizing AI-based training programmes for students and educational institutions to promote awareness and develop skills in emerging technologies, while a dedicated startup pavilion showcases innovative products.

S&P Global representative Huma Maqbool, while talking to Radio Pakistan, termed the initiative timely and necessary.

She said initiative will highlight strong youth participation and innovative displays, including AI-powered robots and climate-related projects.

She described the event as an important step toward empowering future generations with digital skills.

The Indus AI Week will continue until the 15th of this month.