Amidst the economic crisis, inflation, and needs facing Pakistan, the country has been compelled to seek assistance from the American company Google to develop its educational and technological infrastructure. Google has provided Pakistani students with a significant 'free gift' aimed at advancing the 'artificial intelligence revolution' in the neighboring country.
According to the agreement reached between the government and Google, Pakistani students will be granted free access to Google's expensive and advanced AI tools for one year. While the country faces shortages of basic amenities and economic stability, the government, led by Shahbaz Sharif, views this free gift as a step toward realizing the dream of a technological revolution.
The agreement also includes expanding the Google Career Certificate program to stimulate digital skills. Google aims to provide 150,000 such certificates in Pakistan by 2026. Furthermore, both parties have agreed to establish an AI Center of Excellence in Islamabad. This center plans to train Pakistan's youth and human resources according to the needs of the global market.
Pakistan and Google will also collaborate on applying AI in agriculture and public services. In the agricultural sector, AI will be used for crop monitoring, yield forecasting, and ensuring sustainable farming. As part of the Federal Board of Revenue's digitalization program, AI-based data analysis is planned for implementation.
According to Don News, under the agreement, a target group will be formed, including the government, Google, and relevant parties, to strengthen IT and technology exports. This group will focus on identifying obstacles and opportunities for growth in the IT export sector. Previously, Google.org announced investments of $5 million in Pakistan to promote digital security. Under this 'Digital Pasban' initiative, guidance on digital security, video materials, and seminars for parents in Urdu are planned to be provided to 200,000 families.