Will AI Replace Jobs in Pakistan? Experts Weigh In
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized industries across the globe, and Pakistan is no exception. While many hail AI as a tool for economic growth, others fear job displacement. Therefore, understanding AI’s impact on employment in Pakistan is crucial. Will it replace jobs or transform them? Experts offer insights into this pressing issue.
The Rise of AI in Pakistan
AI adoption in Pakistan has accelerated in recent years. Notably, sectors like banking, healthcare, agriculture, and education have started using AI-driven tools to enhance efficiency. For instance, banks now deploy chatbots for customer service, while hospitals use AI to assist in diagnostics. Meanwhile, tech startups are also integrating AI to improve user experiences and optimize operations.
Consequently, this rapid digital shift raises a vital question: what does this mean for the country’s job market?
Automation vs. Employment: The Ongoing Debate
On one hand, AI promises to reduce operational costs and increase productivity. On the other hand, it threatens traditional jobs, especially in low-skill sectors. For example, data entry clerks, call center agents, and cashiers face the risk of automation. Since these jobs involve repetitive tasks, AI can easily replace them with greater accuracy and speed.
However, experts argue that while AI may eliminate some roles, it will also create new ones. Dr. Umar Saif, a prominent IT expert in Pakistan, emphasizes that “AI will not kill jobs entirely. Instead, it will change the nature of work. Workers must adapt by learning new skills to stay relevant.”
Transitional Impact on Traditional Industries
Although many jobs may disappear, others will evolve. Consider the textile industry, one of Pakistan’s largest employers. AI can automate quality checks and inventory management. Yet, this technology still requires human oversight. Hence, workers trained in AI systems will remain valuable assets.
Similarly, the agriculture sector can benefit immensely. AI-powered drones and sensors can monitor crop health and irrigation needs. Therefore, farmers who embrace these tools will boost productivity and income. Instead of losing jobs, they will upgrade their work with technological support.
What Experts Say About the Future Job Landscape
Pakistani economists and labor analysts mostly agree that AI will reshape, not erase, employment opportunities. They highlight three major outcomes:
- Job Transformation
Most existing roles will change. For instance, an accountant may shift from manual bookkeeping to managing AI-powered financial software. Thus, workers must develop tech fluency to match evolving demands. - New Job Creation
As AI expands, new professions will emerge. AI ethics officers, data analysts, machine learning engineers, and automation supervisors are just a few examples. According to the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), demand for IT professionals has grown 30% year-on-year, driven largely by AI adoption. - Greater Demand for Soft Skills
Despite automation, creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking remain irreplaceable. Consequently, educational institutions must realign curricula to foster these abilities alongside technical skills.
Upskilling: A National Imperative
Although the AI revolution is inevitable, Pakistan’s workforce must prepare to navigate it. Without adequate training, many could be left behind. For this reason, government initiatives like the DigiSkills.pk platform have emerged. It offers free courses in freelancing, digital marketing, and AI basics. So far, millions have benefited from such programs.
In addition, private-sector organizations are launching AI bootcamps and tech incubators. These efforts aim to bridge the skills gap and ensure that workers transition smoothly into the new digital economy.
Youth and AI: A Double-Edged Sword
Pakistan has a large youth population, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity. On one side, unemployment remains high among graduates. On the other, young people are more adaptable to change and eager to learn.
Therefore, experts believe that with the right guidance and resources, the youth can drive AI innovation. Many have already started freelancing in AI-related fields on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Consequently, they contribute to the digital economy and reduce dependency on traditional employment.
AI and Gender Inclusion
Another important aspect to consider is AI’s impact on gender inclusion. Women in Pakistan often face mobility and societal barriers that limit access to job opportunities. However, AI-driven remote work platforms now offer flexible jobs in data labeling, content moderation, and customer service.
Hence, AI can help empower women by creating more inclusive work environments. According to recent data, the number of female freelancers in Pakistan has increased by 70% over the past three years, thanks to digital tools and AI-based platforms.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these positive developments, several challenges remain. First, Pakistan’s education system needs modernization to include AI and digital literacy. Without it, the talent pipeline will remain weak. Second, infrastructure gaps, especially in rural areas, limit AI access and digital training opportunities. Lastly, data privacy laws and ethical standards must evolve to regulate AI usage effectively.
Thus, a collaborative approach involving the government, private sector, and academia is essential to build an AI-ready workforce.
The Way Forward
Given these realities, the focus should shift from fearing AI to preparing for it. Pakistan must invest in:
- Education reform to introduce AI and coding at school levels
- Technical training programs for the existing workforce
- Public-private partnerships to expand digital infrastructure
- Policy frameworks to ensure ethical and inclusive AI deployment
If these steps are taken, AI will act not as a threat but as a catalyst for national progress.
Final Thoughts: A Balanced Perspective
To conclude, AI will undoubtedly impact jobs in Pakistan, but not in a purely negative way. While some roles will vanish, many more will emerge—better, more creative, and higher-paying. Transitioning smoothly will require upskilling, innovation, and proactive policymaking.
Rather than asking, “Will AI replace jobs in Pakistan?” we should ask, “How can Pakistan harness AI to create better jobs?” With timely action and inclusive growth strategies, AI can transform the country’s workforce for the better.
