Governor Mandates AI Curriculum Across Balochistan’s Public Universities
Governor Balochistan, Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, has issued a directive to all vice chancellors of public sector universities in the province to immediately introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-based curricula and align academic programs with the evolving demands of the job market. Speaking at a gathering, the Governor emphasized that AI is no longer a futuristic prediction but has become an integral part of daily life, already strengthening sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, industry, finance, and governance.
Global Shift Toward AI and Automation
The Governor noted that global economies and societies are rapidly moving towards AI and automation, with countries, multinational corporations, and international investors heavily investing in these sectors. He stressed that being appointed as a university vice chancellor is not only an honor but also a national responsibility. Strong foundations are being laid in public sector universities to provide intellectual guidance to policymakers and planners, he added.
Vision for Youth as AI Engineers
“The day is not far when our youth will go abroad not as drivers, laborers, or security guards, but as AI engineers, software developers, data scientists, and researchers,” Mandokhail remarked. He cautioned that failure to adopt modern technology in time would leave the nation lagging, forced to crawl instead of competing in the race of life. Despite challenges such as poverty, limited resources, and decades of underinvestment, he expressed confidence that through solid planning, foresight, public-private partnerships, and collective efforts, these obstacles could be overcome.
Research Centers and Digital Skills Development
The Governor instructed universities to ensure the full functionality of research centers, encouraging applied research to find sustainable solutions to economic, agricultural, and social challenges. He highlighted that large-scale digital skill development among youth would not only help them secure government jobs but also enable them to create entrepreneurial opportunities for others.
AI Centers as Strategic Investments
Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail reaffirmed that AI centers and laboratories are already being established in several universities across Balochistan. He stressed that these initiatives are not symbolic but represent strategic investments in the province’s future. “Our vision and determination will help transform Balochistan into a hub of digital excellence, innovation, and technological advancement,” he concluded. OPPO Pakistan and Ufone/PTCL Group have also entered a landmark strategic partnership agreement, signaling broader tech collaboration in the country.
