In a historic move to redefine Pakistan’s technological landscape, the federal government has launched a massive $1 billion roadmap for digital transformation. If you are an aspiring researcher or a professional looking to upskill, learning how to apply for PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative is your gateway to the most significant educational opportunity in the country’s history. Announced during the inaugural “Indus AI Week” in February 2026, this program aims to award 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships and train one million non-IT professionals in artificial intelligence by 2030.
The PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative is not just a funding project; it is a vision to integrate AI modules into the curriculum of all federally run schools, spanning from Islamabad to the remote regions of Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). By the year 2030, Pakistan aims to be a knowledge-based powerhouse, ready to lead the global Fourth Industrial Revolution.
What is the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative?
The PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative is a multi-dimensional strategy backed by a $1 billion investment plan. This funding is dedicated to building a robust AI ecosystem that focuses on high-impact sectors such as agriculture, mining, industry, and commerce. According to the Prime Minister, the goal is to transform Pakistan from a commodity-based economy into an innovation-driven economy.
Key Pillars of the $1 Billion Plan:
- PhD Scholarships: 1,000 fully funded PhD slots in AI fields to develop world-class research capacity.
- School Curriculum: Introduction of AI-focused education in all federal and regional schools.
- Mass Upskilling: Training 1,000,000 non-IT professionals to enhance national productivity.
- National AI Policy 2025: Implementing the policy framework approved in July 2025 for democratized AI access.
- Digital Infrastructure: Scaling sovereign compute infrastructure to fuel local research and startups.
How to Apply for PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative: Step-by-Step Guide
For many students, the centerpiece of this announcement is the prestigious scholarship program. If you are wondering how to apply for PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative scholarships, the process is being channeled through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MOITT).
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you start the application for the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Nationality: Open to all citizens of Pakistan, AJK, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Education: For PhD scholarships, candidates must have completed 18 years of education (MS/MPhil/ME) in Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, or Engineering.
- Academic Merit: A minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 is required for shortlisting.
- Research Focus: Your research interest must align with the national priority sectors like AI-driven agriculture or mining.
Step 2: Documentation Checklist
To successfully apply for the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative, ensure you have the following:
- Attested copies of all degrees and transcripts via the HEC.
- A detailed CV highlighting your technical projects and research papers.
- A Research Proposal (Abstract) explaining how your AI research will benefit Pakistan.
- Valid GAT (Subject) or GRE scores as specified by the HEC portal.
Step 3: Register on the HEC E-Portal
The registration for the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative is hosted on the HEC E-Portal.
- Sign up for an account and navigate to the “Scholarships and Grants” section.
- Select the “National AI PhD Scholarship Program 2026.”
- Fill in your personal and academic details and upload the required PDF documents.
- Submit the application before the specified deadline for the first phase.
Step 4: Technical Evaluation
Shortlisted candidates for the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative will be called for a technical interview by a board of national and international AI experts to assess their potential and commitment to the field.
Training 1 Million Professionals: The “AI for All” Program
A unique component of the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative is the “AI for All” training program. This is specifically designed for individuals who are not from a tech background—including doctors, lawyers, farmers, and business owners—to help them use AI tools to double their efficiency.
Why Non-IT Professionals Should Apply:
- Agriculture: Learn AI tools for precision farming and soil health monitoring.
- Commerce: Use AI for market analysis and predictive logistics.
- Productivity: Automate administrative tasks to focus on core professional goals.
To join the upskilling training under the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative, applicants should register through the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) website, where courses are offered in collaboration with top tech giants.
The Strategic Importance of the Islamabad Declaration
The PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative was further solidified by the “Islamabad Declaration” during the Indus AI Summit 2026. This declaration sets eight strategic principles, including sovereign data privacy, human accountability, and a “use-case first” approach. This ensures that the $1 billion investment is used ethically and transparently to protect the rights of Pakistani citizens.
The government is also working on a “National Digital Master Plan” to guide the rollout of these programs, ensuring that even students in remote Balochistan have the same access to AI education as those in major cities like Lahore or Karachi.
Authentic Resources and Application Links
To ensure you are accessing real information and avoiding deceptive “clickbait” sites, always use these official government links to learn how to apply for PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative:
- Higher Education Commission (HEC): HEC Official Website
- Ministry of IT & Telecom (MOITT): MOITT Portal
- Press Information Department (PID): PID News Updates
- Prime Minister’s Youth Program: PMYP Hub
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative only for IT graduates?
No. The scholarship program for PhDs is for specialized fields, but the “1 Million Professional Training” is open to anyone from any academic background who wants to learn AI.
2. What is the total budget for the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative?
The Prime Minister has committed a total of $1 billion to be invested in the AI sector by the year 2030.
3. Can students from Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK apply?
Yes. The PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative explicitly includes students and schools from GB, AJK, and remote Balochistan to ensure national inclusivity.
4. When will the first batch of PhD scholarships be awarded?
The first phase of the PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative scholarship rollout is scheduled for mid-2026. Check the HEC portal regularly for the opening of the application window.
Conclusion: Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
The PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative represents a “game-changer” for the youth of Pakistan. By dedicating $1 billion to research and training, the government is ensuring that Pakistan is no longer just a spectator in the global tech revolution but a leading participant. Whether you are a researcher aiming for a PhD or a worker looking to modernize your skills, knowing how to apply for PM Shehbaz Sharif AI Initiative is your first step toward a prosperous future.
With the 2030 deadline approaching, the time to prepare is now. Don’t let this $1 billion opportunity pass you by—visit the official portals today and start your journey toward becoming an AI expert in Pakistan’s new digital era!
