Alibaba Cloud, the cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) arm of China’s Alibaba Group, has joined forces with Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan’s Bano Qabil initiative and Cognix to support young technology innovators across Pakistan.
The collaboration brought 749 finalists to the grand finale of the Alibaba Cloud AI Hackathon at the Pak-China Friendship Centre in Islamabad on October 24, 2026.
According to the event organisers, the competition received more than 16,000 applications nationwide. After regional rounds in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, the finalists advanced with 300 AI projects for the final stage.
Six Categories Highlight AI Innovation
The finalists presented AI-powered solutions across six categories:
- Smart agriculture
- Healthcare
- Education
- Financial inclusion
- Urdu and regional language technology
- Open innovation
The categories focus on practical applications of AI to challenges affecting Pakistan’s economy and society. Projects in agriculture, healthcare and education aim to explore how emerging technologies can support services and improve efficiency.
The Urdu and regional language technology category also encourages developers to create digital tools that better serve Pakistan’s linguistically diverse population.
Alibaba Cloud and Bano Qabil Support Young Innovators
Through the initiative, Alibaba Cloud, Alkhidmat Foundation’s Bano Qabil programme and Cognix are providing a platform for aspiring technology professionals to demonstrate their skills and explore AI-based solutions.
The hackathon gives young developers an opportunity to apply their knowledge to practical challenges while engaging with technology partners and other innovators.
The participation of students and developers from across the country also highlights growing interest in AI education and digital skills development in Pakistan.
AI Innovation Could Support Pakistan’s Digital Growth
The competition reflects wider efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital talent and expand its participation in the global AI ecosystem.
AI applications in financial inclusion could help explore ways to improve access to services, while locally developed tools may address specific needs in agriculture, education and healthcare.
By bringing together young developers, technology companies and social-sector organisations, the hackathon aims to encourage homegrown innovation and support the development of solutions tailored to Pakistan’s needs.
Read More Articles
WAPDA Signs Rs133.18bn Diamer Basha Dam Contract
Mao Ning to Visit Pakistan for 75 Years of Friendship
Pakistani Creators in China Are Introducing Pakistan to Chinese Audiences
