AI Set to Become Compulsory in Universities Students Welcome Move but Teachers Flag Readiness Issues

By ENN Education News Pakistan

Pakistan’s universities are moving toward making artificial intelligence a compulsory part of degree programs, a step policymakers say is essential to prepare graduates for a rapidly evolving digital economy. While the idea has generally been welcomed by students, conversations on campuses suggest implementation may be more complex than policy announcements indicate.

Across several universities contacted by ENN, students say AI tools are already part of everyday academic life — often informally.

“Everyone uses AI now for research outlines, coding help, even presentations,” said Hassan Raza, a business student in Lahore. “But nobody has actually taught us what’s happening behind the scenes. If it becomes compulsory, it should be practical, not just theory.”

Students in non-technical disciplines appear particularly interested. Islamabad-based sociology student Areeba Khan said understanding AI’s social impact matters as much as technical know-how. “We need to know how algorithms influence media, hiring, policing — it’s bigger than just technology.”

Faculty responses, however, reveal concern about readiness.

A senior lecturer at a Karachi public university said the idea is forward-looking but capacity gaps remain. “Outside computer science departments, most teachers haven’t been trained in AI fundamentals. Without proper faculty preparation, the rollout could become symbolic.”

Another professor at a private Islamabad university described the shift as inevitable but warned against rushing it. “Curriculum reform requires infrastructure, trained instructors, and clarity on what students actually need. Otherwise it becomes another checkbox policy.”

Infrastructure disparities also persist. Several public-sector institutions still struggle with reliable internet, updated computer labs, and software access — basic requirements for meaningful AI education.

Education analysts note that globally, AI literacy is increasingly viewed like basic computer literacy was two decades ago — an essential skill rather than a specialization. Countries across Asia, Europe, and the Gulf have already integrated AI education into national strategies, linking it directly to workforce competitiveness.

Pakistan’s move could have significant implications beyond academia. The education technology sector, already expanding through digital classrooms and remote learning platforms, may see accelerated demand if universities begin upgrading infrastructure and course offerings.

Still, experts caution that policy declarations alone won’t deliver results. Sustained investment in teacher training, curriculum design, and technological infrastructure will determine whether AI education becomes transformative or merely symbolic.

For students, though, the direction appears clear.

“AI is coming whether universities teach it or not,” said one engineering student in Lahore. “At least this way, we might actually learn it properly.”