AI IN SOCIAL CHANGE IN PAKISTAN: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES AND WAY FORWARD

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is considered a powerful tool for social change in different sectors in the world: it has emerged in governance, education, human rights movements, and even economic growth. Pakistan is a traditional society. The potential of AI here lies in changing established norms, empowering youth, and reducing economic inequality. Nevertheless, there is still immense distrust regarding the country's preparedness to utilize AI for any serious societal development. This paper examined the role of AI as a social change tool in Pakistan. The paper analyzed Pakistan's preparedness in terms of its institutional readiness, infrastructure, and policy to meet the challenges of this digital technology. The research has two research questions. The first question is how can AI be used as a tool of social change in Pakistan? And second, can Pakistan afford to introduce AI into the whole of their socio-political economy? The study used mixed methods, such as quantitative surveys of students, government officials, and AI experts, to find out how ready Pakistan is for an AI regulatory framework and digital infrastructure. This research revealed that Pakistan is not prepared for AI yet, but it has the potential to bring social change via education, entrepreneurship, or digital activism. Regarding AI, Pakistan faces numerous challenges, including inadequate AI governance, inadequate infrastructure, and a reluctance to adopt technology for social transformation. However, AI initiatives can identify socio-economic issues like youth unemployment, social justice, gender inequality, and political awareness. The research study suggested that comprehensive AI policies and digital and public investments mostly for the youth so that they can be connected with the AI to transform their socio-economic, cultural, and political position in Pakistan.