The government has officially introduced an Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101 module at the Civil Services Academy (CSA). This move integrates AI training directly into the civil services curriculum. The Federal Minister for IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, inaugurated the initiative, marking a significant shift in bureaucratic training.
She addressed a special CSS batch at the academy. During the address, she stated that this initiative is a key part of the government’s Digital Nation Vision. Furthermore, it aligns with the Digital Nation Pakistan Act. The Minister described this Act as a governance reform framework rather than just a technology policy.
AI Training for the Next Generation
The Ministry of IT and Telecom developed this AI module jointly with the Planning Commission, the Civil Services Academy, and atomcamp. The National Artificial Intelligence Policy emphasises building human capacity within government institutions. Consequently, this training aims to prepare future civil servants for the responsible use of emerging technologies.
A special batch of probationary officers attended the launch. This cohort included 52 officers from Balochistan and 56 from Sindh. In total, 150 probationary officers completed a two-day intensive training program. The structured instruction covered:
- AI Fundamentals
- Prompt Engineering
- Administrative & Research Applications
- Productivity Tools
- Ethical Considerations
Additionally, a training-of-trainers program was completed. Now, 30 faculty members from various civil service training institutions serve as master trainers. The Minister announced that all future batches will receive this structured instruction. Moreover, the partnership with atomcamp will expand to cover advanced AI modules.
Digital Reforms & Efficiency
The Minister highlighted broader success in digital reforms. The federal government has achieved 100% e-Office adoption across 38 of 39 divisions. This shift has drastically improved efficiency. File processing time has dropped from 25–30 days to just 4 days.
She noted that affordable high-speed internet, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence are central to Pakistan’s digital strategy. Moving forward, the ministry intends to extend AI training to mid-career and senior officers. These capacity-building initiatives will align with emerging AI governance and data protection frameworks.
This initiative links directly to the Digital Nation Pakistan legislation introduced in the National Assembly in December 2024. The bill proposes a national framework for digitisation. It also provides for the creation of a National Digital Commission. The Prime Minister will chair this commission to oversee Pakistan’s digital transformation and infrastructure investment.
