Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday launched the Inspire Initiative, a groundbreaking national program aimed at developing Pakistan’s talent pool in semiconductor design, research, and advanced technology.
The launch ceremony, held in Islamabad, marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to join the global race in high-tech innovation and digital transformation.
Speaking at the event, PM Shehbaz described the initiative as “a critical need of the hour,” stressing that the future belongs to nations that invest in knowledge, skills, and innovation.
He highlighted that Pakistan’s youth — vibrant, ambitious, and talented — are the nation’s greatest asset, and equipping them with training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology (IT), and semiconductor engineering is essential to securing the country’s economic future.
Government’s Full Support and Funding Commitment
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s complete commitment to the project, assuring that funding would not be an obstacle. He announced that Rs 4.5 billion had already been allocated from the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) to execute the Inspire Initiative.
Shehbaz emphasized that those who master AI and semiconductor technology will shape the future of the world, urging educational institutions and industry professionals to collaborate closely.
He added that Pakistan is also advancing in digital governance, mentioning the creation of the Pakistan Digital Authority and progress toward a cashless economy as complementary steps to this initiative.
Training, Research, and University Clusters
Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, also speaking at the event, called the launch a historic day for Pakistan’s tech sector. She declared that under the Inspire Initiative, 7,200 young professionals will receive specialized training in semiconductor research and design.
The program will also be going to create nine university clusters equipped with state-of-the-art integrated circuit laboratories, enabling students and researchers to work on cutting-edge chip design projects.
Shaza Fatima said the government’s top priority is youth empowerment through education, training, and employability — ensuring Pakistan’s next generation is prepared to compete globally in one of the world’s most advanced industries.