Ahsan proposes SCO Digital Governance, AI Capacity-Building Network

According to Business Recorder, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has proposed an SCO Digital Governance and AI Capacity-Building Network. The proposed body would bring together governments, civil service training academies, universities, research bodies, technology centres and private innovators across member states. He made the proposal in a keynote address at a thematic forum during the 2026 SCO Digital Economy Forum in Urumqi.

Ahsan Iqbal argued that digital governance, not simple digitisation, is the next stage, requiring systems to be redesigned around citizens, data and measurable results. His five proposals cover a governance academy for ministers and regulators, a public infrastructure exchange covering identity systems, instant payments, online purchasing and taxation, a fellowship scheme for young civil servants and researchers, a responsible AI and data governance forum, and an inclusion facility for underserved groups. He also suggested that cross-border data cooperation start with pilot projects in trade and logistics, with targets set for officials trained and citizens using digital services.

Pakistan has set a target of training one million non-IT professionals in AI skills by 2030, and seven AI hubs under the National AI Advancement Initiative are being set up to offer 20,000 training places. The Digi Skills programme has recorded more than 4.5 million enrolments. He reaffirmed Pakistan's readiness to work with China and all SCO states on cooperation that can be measured.