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Introduction
Traditionally, MBBS and engineering have been a preferred career choice for most brilliant Pakistani students. However, due to growing competition and shrinking opportunities in traditional professions, many are now exploring new fields for a secure and promising future.
During the last few years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising career. Those who could not secure a seat in public institutes may consider artificial intelligence courses as a lucrative alternate. According to a recent Google report, Pakistan can double its exports by training its youth in AI and advanced IT. However, Pakistan’s outdated education system is a challenge.
In this article, we will discuss how Pakistanis can overcome this obstacle and acquire AI skills that could get them decent local and international jobs. Before discussing the topic further, let us know some basics.
What is artificial intelligence?
When computers do tasks that need human thinking it is called artificial intelligence (AI). We use Ai in daily life, even without noticing it. For example, when we ask Google Maps for directions, google use Ai to suggest us the best and fastest route.
AI is not a new technology. It was introduced in the 1950s and developed gradually. In the 1980s scientists focused on machine learning. During the 2010s deep learning progressed. The present era is the age of generative AI. Creating images, text, video, or audio, with the help of Ai is called generative AI. Many of us know ChatGpt or Llama 3.2. Both large language models, learn from existing data and create new content. Generative ai is based on Machine learning (ML), data science (DS), and deep learning (DL). Below are the details of some of the important Ai branches.
Ai Branches
Machine Learning (ML): In this technology machines learn from past experiences and make suggestions based on our past preferences. Netflix suggests movies or Google makes suggestions to us, they are based on our past preferences, stored in our computers or smart devices. Many of the ads we see on your social media pages are customized ads, based on your browsing history or interests.
Deep learning (DL): This is a more advanced form of machine learning. In deep learning, machines can recognize images and understand speech. Siri and Google Assistant use deep learning to understand our commands.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): When you ask Alexa or Google a question, NLP helps them understand and process your voice and respond appropriately.
Robotics: Designing and creating robots who could do manual tasks, like mopping floors, or even delivering packages, is called robotics.
Computer Vision: Through computer vision, machines see and interpret images or videos. Facebook tags you in photos, or Google Lens search images based on computer vision.
Artificial Intelligence is in its initial stage in Pakistan. Many universities and colleges are offering basic and advance courses in data science, machine learning, deep learning, and robotics. Here are some of the most prestigious institutes.
Top Artificial Intelligence Courses in Pakistan
Karachi
National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST)
Programs: Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, MS in Artificial Intelligence
Website: nust.edu.pk
Institute of Business Administration (IBA)
Programs: Master of Science in Computer Science (specialization in AI)
Website: iba.edu.pk
Bahria University - Different Cities
Programs: Certificates, BS in artificial intelligence, MS in artificial intelligence
Website: bahria.edu.pk
Lahore
University of the Punjab
Programs: MS in Computer Science with a specialization in AI, BS in Computer Science
Website: pu.edu.pk
Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS)
Programs: MS in Computer Science with AI courses, BS in Computer Science
Website: lums.edu.pk
Islamabad
National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST)
Programs: Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, MS in Artificial Intelligence
Website: nust.edu.pk
Quaid-i-Azam University
Programs: MS in Computer Science with AI specialization
Website: qau.edu.pk
COMSATS Institute of Information Technology
Programs: BS in artificial intelligence, MS in artificial intelligence
Website: comsats.edu.pk
Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS)
Programs: MS in Computer Science with specialization in AI
Website: pieas.edu.pk
University of Science and Technology, Islamabad
Programs: BS in Computer Science with AI specialization
Website: uost.edu.pk
Rawalpindi
Foundation University Islamabad
Programs: BS in Computer Science with AI courses, MS in Computer Science
Website: fui.edu.pk
Other Major Cities
University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Peshawar
Programs: BS in Computer Science, MS in Computer Science with AI focus
Website: uetpeshawar.edu.pk
Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI), Topi
Programs: BS in Computer Engineering with AI electives, MS in Computer Science
Website: giki.edu.pk
University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad
Programs: BS in Computer Science with AI courses, MS in Computer Science
Website: uajk.edu.pk
Pak-Austria Fachhochschule: Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology, Haripur
Programs: BS in artificial intelligence, MS in artificial intelligence
Website: paf.edu.pk
Challenges to AI education in Pakistan
Pakistani education system has a poor brand image globally. According to a State Bank of Pakistan report around 90 percent of total gradates lack employable skills. To enhance employability, students may consider online degrees from reputable institutions. To enhance their skills, they can opt for free internships with reputable local organizations. Below is a list of top institutes offering the best free artificial intelligence courses online.
- Harvard University: CS50's Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python (Basic to Intermediate) on edX.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Introduction to Deep Learning (Intermediate)
- University of California, Berkeley: Berkeley AI Materials (Intermediate to Advanced) for self-study.
- Kaggle: Learn Machine Learning (Basic to Intermediate).
- Fast.ai: Practical Deep Learning for Coders (Intermediate).
- DataCamp: Introduction to Python for Data Science (Basic) on DataCamp.
Free Online Courses on Youtube
YouTube: Channels like 3Blue1Brown, Sentdex, and "StatQuest with Josh Starmer" offer quality tutorials on AI and machine learning.
Coursera and edX: Both platforms have numerous free online courses, however, most of the courses are only partially free.
Conclusion
Due to the decreasing demand for Pakistani doctors, engineers and even IT professionals in the local and international market, students are exploring new professions for a more secure future. AI is expected to dominate the international job market for the next ten years. By opting artificial intelligence courses, Pakistanis can secure jobs in local industries and access abundant online job opportunities as well. However, to excel in AI, only a degree is not enough, they must develop practical skills as well.
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