IRM seminar urges skills-based education for Pakistan’s AI future

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th May, 2026) Education experts, policymakers, and development professionals at a seminar in Islamabad said Pakistan’s workforce will need practical skills instead of degrees alone to succeed in an economy shaped by artificial intelligence (AI).

Speakers stressed the need for reforms in education, training, and workforce development to prepare people for changing job demands.

The seminar, organized by the Institute of Rural Management (IRM) focused on the theme, “Beyond Degrees: The Future of Education, AI, and Skills That Matter.” Participants discussed how AI is changing education, employment, healthcare, agriculture, and governance in Pakistan.

Speakers at the event said future employment opportunities will depend on practical skills, digital literacy, critical thinking, adaptability, and continuous learning.

They noted that many academic programmes are not fully aligned with the needs of modern industries and technology-driven workplaces.

Prof Dr Raheel Qamar, Rector of COMSATS University, said artificial intelligence is now being used to solve problems in several sectors, including education, healthcare, research, and industry.

He said universities should update their teaching methods, course content, and assessment systems to prepare students for technological changes and evolving job markets.

Israr Mohammed Khan, Director General of the National Centre for Rural Development (NCRD), spoke about the use of AI in agriculture and rural development.

He said modern technology can support farmers through better farming methods, improved productivity, supply chain management, and market access.

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According to him, AI can help rural communities make informed decisions and improve the sale of agricultural products.

Development and Public Policy Specialist Ghulam Shabbir said AI readiness is not limited to technology alone.

He stated that strong institutions, effective governance, public-sector capacity, and evidence-based policymaking are equally important. He also stressed the need to ensure that communities in remote and underserved areas benefit from digital development.

Usman Zahid, Chief AI Officer at White Rice Impact, said many organizations face challenges in adopting AI because employees often lack the skills needed to use technology effectively.

He said creativity, critical thinking, and workforce training are important for successful AI adoption across different sectors.

Participants also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the government, academic institutions, industries, and development organizations. They said joint efforts are necessary to build a workforce that can respond to future technological and economic changes.

The seminar concluded with a call for reforms aimed at improving education systems and increasing access to skill-based learning opportunities across Pakistan.

According to IRM, the organization works on education, livelihoods, rural transformation, and capacity-building projects in partnership with governments, UN agencies, and development organizations.