The Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives (MoPDSI) launched the URAAN AI Techathon 1.0 on Monday under its flagship URAAN Pakistan initiative, a program designed to mobilise youth and professionals to apply artificial intelligence (AI) to real-world challenges.
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, addressing the inaugural ceremony, described the Techathon as a “national call” to inspire and challenge Pakistani students, developers, entrepreneurs, and thinkers to create innovative AI-based solutions. He emphasised that the initiative is part of the URAAN Pakistan National Innovation Mission, aligned with Vision 2025, the National AI Policy, and sectoral strategies.
“This is not just a competition but a movement to empower youth and transform key sectors of the economy,” Iqbal said. He noted that AI is already reshaping health, education, agriculture, industry, governance, and climate response, stressing that Pakistan cannot afford to remain a bystander in the global AI revolution.
The Minister announced the launch of a dedicated online portal to serve as a hub for registrations, resources, and communication, with a commitment to ensuring inclusive participation, especially from underserved and remote regions.
Highlighting the government’s priorities, Iqbal said that AI is being integrated into curricula, while training programs, mentorship, and Centres of Excellence are being established to build national capacity. He further underlined the role of startups, universities, and technology parks in creating a robust AI ecosystem.
“Through initiatives like the URAAN AI Techathon 1.0, we are not only nurturing innovation but also preparing Pakistan to move toward a trillion-dollar economy by 2035,” the minister added. Concluding his address, he urged youth to step forward with ideas and creativity that can compete with the best in the world.
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