AI capacity building for all educators vital for international competitiveness, say Academics, hailing HEC reforms

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Feb, 2026) Applauding recent reforms by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), education experts Thursday stressed that embedding AI education in academic programs and conducting nationwide teacher training sessions are vital to securing the country’s place in the fast-evolving global economy.

While exclusively speaking to a local news channel, Khalid Mahmood, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, said the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into academic curricula is no longer optional but essential for national development.

He stated that universities must redesign programs to equip students with practical AI knowledge and problem-solving skills. “If we want our graduates to compete at the international level, we must align our teaching methodologies with emerging technologies,” he remarked, adding that faculty development remains a top priority.

Education expert Raza Ur Rehman emphasized that AI literacy should not be confined to computer science departments alone.

He noted that AI applications are transforming fields such as medicine, engineering, social sciences and business, making cross-disciplinary training imperative.

“Teachers must be trained to integrate AI tools into everyday classroom practices so that students can develop analytical and innovative thinking,” he said.

Meanwhile, Prof Mohsin, Member Syndicate at Jamia also highlighted the importance of structured training workshops for faculty members across all institutions.

He pointed out that without proper orientation and ethical guidelines, the benefits of AI cannot be fully realized. “We must ensure responsible and effective use of AI in education, supported by continuous professional development programs,” he added.

They further observed that Artificial Intelligence is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, particularly in the business sector and multinational companies, where AI-driven skills are increasingly in demand.

They noted that global firms now prefer candidates with AI expertise, data analysis capabilities and technological adaptability.

Emphasizing this growing trend, they stressed that mandatory AI training for teachers is crucial so they can properly guide students toward emerging career paths and ensure the workforce remains aligned with evolving industry requirements.

The education leaders collectively praised the initiatives taken by the Higher Education Commission and government, urging policymakers to expand AI-focused training nationwide to secure the country’s competitive position in the rapidly evolving global landscape.