Report By T.M Awan

RAWALPINDI: The Alliance Tech Summit 2025, held at the National Incubation Center for Aerospace Technologies (NICAT) in Rawalpindi, marked a significant step toward realizing Pakistan’s vision of becoming a global technology hub. The summit gathered leading national and international experts in artificial intelligence, education technology (edtech), cybersecurity, gaming, and digital policy.

The idea for the summit was conceptualized by Project Director Sabih Nasir, setting the foundation for a high-impact discussion on the future of tech in Pakistan.

*Core Message: Beyond Donor Dependency*

Speakers at the event emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to transition from donor-reliant models to a framework rooted in self-reliance, domestic investment, and the empowerment of youth. The consensus was clear: long-term technological growth hinges on building trust, nurturing talent, and enabling local innovation.

*Key Insights from the Summit*

Dr. Tariq Khan, Convener of Alliance Pakistan, highlighted that real progress would only be possible through intellectual and digital evolution. He projected that by 2045, AI agents indistinguishable from humans would be common globally, urging Pakistan to prepare accordingly.

AI expert Sheikh Abdul Qadir underlined the growing influence of artificial intelligence on the services sector and stressed the need for establishing quality standards and regulations in Pakistan.

Cybersecurity and geopolitical intelligence specialist Ali Malik warned of privacy and security risks posed by rapid AI expansion and called for internships to integrate youth into the tech workforce.

Edtech expert Ursala Waqar advocated for inclusive access to technology, especially for out-of-school children, and emphasized solving problems at the grassroots level.

Product development expert Gull Zeba argued for moving beyond donor-funded projects by unlocking sustainable investment avenues. She raised a vital point about aligning youth skills with market needs.

Digital policy specialist Raza Ahmad Sukhera encouraged youth to dream ambitiously and stay consistent, describing persistence as the cornerstone of success.

AI health tech innovator Shahrukh Babar voiced concern over Pakistan’s business climate, pointing to a credibility gap that deters foreign investment.

Gaming and app development expert Khawar Naeem said Pakistan has immense potential in the gaming industry but needs a timely, strategic approach to tap into its talent base.

*Closing Consensus*

At the conclusion of the summit, participants jointly agreed that empowering the youth with skills, mentorship, and opportunities was essential for placing Pakistan on the global technology map. They stressed collaborative efforts across government, academia, and the private sector to build a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem.

*Acknowledgment*

*Dr. Tariq Khan extended special appreciation to the organizing team — Sabih Nasir, Shabbir Hussain, Husna Khattak, Fizza Faizan Farooqui , Rabia Khan ,Fazil Hussain, Waqar Ahmed, and Qaiser Aziz — for their tireless efforts and exceptional management of the summit’s successful execution.

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