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UNESCO launched a MasterClass series in Pakistan to address some of the burning issues faced in the country to help explore solutions with the aim to create knowledge-based societies. In the efforts to promote and foster information sharing and knowledge transfer, UNESCO successfully concluded its first episode of the MasterClass Series, titled Harnessing the Era of Artificial Intelligence for a Sustainable Future. With UNESCO’s commitment to strengthening higher education of Pakistan and the strategic support from the Higher Education Commission (HEC), the webinar brought together more than 200 participants from the academia, especially faculty members and university students from more than 15 higher education institutions across Pakistan to understand Pakistan’s vision in leveraging AI for socio-economic growth. The session focused on the international global framework incorporating ethical considerations in AI, and country’s efforts in expanding AI. The webinar commenced with a context setting by Mr. Hamza Khan Swati, National Professional Officer (Communication and Information), UNESCO in Pakistan, who highlighted the growing use of AI and its impact on our lives.  During the opening remarks, Mr. Antony Kar Hung Tam, Officer-in-Charge emphasized the role of shaping ethical and inclusive digital transformation surrounding AI in the world and Pakistan. 

The webinar brought together two keynote experts. Mr. Gustavo Fonseca Ribeiro, working on strengthening capacities of civil servants and judiciary on AI and Digital Transformation at UNESCO, discussed AI’s potential in public sector service delivery.

Dr. Aneel Salman, Chair of the National AI Policy, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, provided insights into Pakistan’s strategic approach to integrating AI at the national level. Dr. Salman highlighted the rapid evolution of AI technologies and their role in reshaping labor markets. Reports indicate that 44 percent of workers face skill disruptions due to AI-driven automation, making cognitive skills, creative thinking, and technology literacy crucial for future employment. Discussions also emphasized on the increasing demand for AI and big data expertise across industries such as management, media, entertainment, health, education, hospitality and information technology (IT) services. 

Key takeaways from the session included the recognition of AI as a game changer for Pakistan. Participants emphasized the need for an inclusive AI policy framework, greater knowledge transfer to enhance understanding of AI ethics and international norms, and the importance of AI-driven innovation in socio-economic development.

In Pakistan, UNESCO is actively expanding efforts to facilitate multi-stakeholder collaboration in alignment with recommendations on Ethics in AI, particularly concerning fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and access to information. The organization continues to support ongoing policy interventions in AI and is working on preparing policy recommendations.

Additionally, UNESCO is committed to enhancing the education sector by building the capacities of public-school teachers to integrate AI into learning and assessment processes, promoting its ethical and effective use in classrooms in Pakistan.

UNESCO will continue this MasterClass series in Pakistan. University students, educators, and professionals interested in AI and digital transformation are encouraged to participate in future MasterClass episodes.