ISLAMABAD: Experts on Tuesday called for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and progress in technology to be harnessed for improving socioeconomic conditions and maximising the benefits for human lives.

They argued that advanced data networks must be deployed immediately to modernise state infrastructure, overcome persistent growth challenges, and provide practical solutions for the citizenry.

`Pakistan needs to move beyond discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics and focus on how these technologies can improve public services, create jobs and address everyday challenges,` the experts said at an international conference held at Air University.

Dr Mohammad Tahir Noor, SecretaryPlanning, Development and Special Initiatives, said technologicalprogress should not be judged solely by the sophistication of new applications but by how effectively they improve people`s lives.

`The progress of our technology sector should be measured partly by the opportunities it creates for others,` he said.

Dr Noor added that Pakistan needed technology designed around its own circumstances, particularly affordability, internet connectivity, language barriers and varying levels of digital literacy. A successful innovation, he observed, should make it easier for a small business to operate, a teacher to support students or a citizen to access government services.

He highlighted the changing nature of employment in the age of AI, urging universities and employers to equip young professionals with practical skills, sound judgement and the ability to adapt as technologies evolve.

Dr Ghulam Ali Mallah of the Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) also offered paid internship opportunities to students, encouraging them to gain practical experience in managing and analysing the institu-tion`s extensive datasets.

Former Chief Statistician of Pakistan Dr Naeemuz Zafar drew attention to the enormous potential of data already collected in the country.

Referring to Pakistan`s first digital population census, he said more than 40 million structures had been geocoded, providing valuable information that could transform development planning.

He explained that combining census findings with administrative and geographical data could help governments identify where schools, hospitals and other essential services were most needed.

Former Surveyor General of Pakistan Kamal Azfar highlighted how geospatial technologies could make cities more efficient and resilient.

Using Islamabad as an example, he explained thatbringingtogetherinformation on roads, buildings, weather, population, drainage and other infrastructure could help create a digital model of the city, commonly known as a digital twin.

Such systems, supported by AI and modern sensors, could enable authorities to anticipate urban challenges, improve civic services and plan moreeffectively for climate-related risks, he said.

Asim Javid, CEO of AI Geo Navigators, raised concerns about the gap between Pakistan`s growing interest in artificial intelligence and the availability of reliable data.

He also urged students to remain open to new skills and changing workplace demands, describing adaptability as essential for succeeding in an increasingly competitive technology sector.

Pakistan Bureau of Statistics Director Rizwan Bashir said conventional surveys and periodic reports alone were no longer sufficient to meet the country`s rapidly changing information needs.

He called for greater use of machine learning, administrative records and internationally recognised statistical standards to produce timely information without compromising accuracy or public trust.

Head of the Department of Statistics and Data Analytical Sciences Dr Ammara Nawaz Cheema said the university aimed to prepare graduates who could contribute to industry from the beginning of their professional careers.