In a pivotal moment at the 1st International Conference on Artificial Intelligence & Society, experts echoed a resounding call for Pakistan to capitalize on the revolution of artificial intelligence (AI). The event, held at the Pakistan Academy of Letters, brought together diverse voices to explore the immense potential AI holds for catapulting the nation’s information technology (IT) exports and overall economic standing in the global market.
The AI conference, orchestrated by the Global Center for Legal Thoughts (GCLT) in collaboration with various esteemed institutions, not only served as a platform for cutting-edge discussions but also delved into the intricate relationship between AI and society. With an emphasis on advancements, ethical considerations, and broader societal implications, the conference set the stage for a crucial conversation on the future trajectory of Pakistan’s technological landscape.
AI’s dual nature unveiled
Former Deputy Attorney General of Pakistan, Justice Dr Syed Mohammad Anwar, took center stage in unraveling the multifaceted nature of the AI revolution. In a thought-provoking revelation, he underscored the dual sides of AI’s rise—its benevolent aspects and the looming specter of hostility. Dr. Anwar delved into the perils of social engineering propagated by AI-based social networking sites, emphasizing the deliberate alteration of ideologies that permeate public, private, social, and civil entities.
The learned speaker acknowledged AI’s capacity to transform the real world, emphasizing the benign nature of information collection. Yet, a clarion call resonated throughout his address—a call to fortify protection guards against social engineering that taints ethical norms and societal values. Dr. Anwar stressed the imperative need for a discerning filter in the minds of individuals to scrutinize and authenticate information derived from AI sources.
On a religious note, Dr. Anwar shed light on the positive facets of AI and IT, citing their instrumental role in making religious texts more accessible. The transformative impact extended to global jurisprudence among Muslim scholars, bridging gaps and fostering consensus. Yet, he urged the nation to delve deeper into the vast domain of IT, emphasizing the untapped potential that lay within.
Demanding the GCLT’s commitment to extending the discourse beyond the conference, Dr. Anwar envisioned a permanent forum dedicated to studying AI’s negative impacts on society while harnessing its positive attributes for collective progress.
AI as the economic catalyst
Dr. Yasir Ayaz, Chairman of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence (NCAI) at NUST, took the stage to elucidate AI’s pivotal role as the driving force behind technological advancements. Highlighting the profound impact of AI embedded in diverse technological solutions, from social media to banking tools, Dr. Ayaz emphasized its centrality to the current human and robot society.
The chairman showcased the achievements of NCAI and its students, whose indigenous efforts garnered global acclaim. His assertion that AI stands as the linchpin of economic development resonated, painting a vivid picture of the current industrial era dominated by the synergy between humans and robots. Dr. Ayaz envisioned a future where AI investment and development could propel Pakistan to generate billions in revenue, opening new avenues for the country in the ever-evolving technological landscape.
As the conference unfolded and experts shared their insights, a pressing question lingered in the air: Will Pakistan seize the transformative potential of AI, not just as a technological force but as an economic catalyst? The answer lies in the nation’s collective commitment to fostering innovation, fortifying ethical safeguards, and establishing a permanent dialogue platform to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the AI revolution. The call has been made, and the future of Pakistan’s IT exports and economic prosperity hinges on its response to the beckoning opportunities within the realm of artificial intelligence.
