Emerging technologies refers to exciting and new advancements and innovations made in the field of technology. These technologies’ significance is rooted in the fact that they can impact industries, economies, society, and our very future by bridging gaps in between conventional methods and industrial revolutions. They are truly fascinating as they signify breakthroughs in the field of technology, such as the development of Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology, Metaverse, nanotechnology, and blockchain, that navigate progress in various other domains such as healthcare, computing, energy, and manufacturing.
Emerging technologies are having a momentous impact on Pakistan, though the extent of these effects is dependent on elements such as infrastructure, investment, education, and government policies. Startups and entrepreneurship have been revolutionized by them (examples include Bazaar, Nayapay, Bykea, SWVL and Airlift etc.). Digital financial services leverage artificial intelligence, blockchain, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to secure and streamline operations. and export growth is being amplified due to IT exports related to emerging tech services, with IT exports growing by 24% annually. . Edtech services such as Taleemabad utilize e-learning tools to make quality education accessible in remote areas.Recently, HEC has decided that matric exams will be checked via artificial intelligence-powered marking system by 2025, suggesting advancements in digitizing education and meeting global education standards in Pakistan. Telemedicine platforms such as Sehat Kahani make use of artificial intelligence and telecommunication to contribute to doctor-patient connectivity in underserved regions. initiatives such as DigiSkills train Pakistanis in artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and freelancing, empowering them for the global gig economy.
Emerging technologies are contributing to e-governance via blockchain and artificial intelligence, which enhance governance transparency.Artificial intelligence-driven analytics and drone technologies aid in disaster prediction, relief, and recovery., Ccybersecurity has also been enhanced, with features such as facial recognition and data analytics improving crime detection and monitoring in urban areas.
Industries such as agriculture, energy sector, and manufacturing have experienced many benefits too, with artificial intelligence and IOTs improving crop yields, predicting weather patterns, and optimizing resource usage. Investments in renewable energy technologies, like solar and hydro energy , are expanding the energy sector, automation and robotics are gradually being introduced, though progress is a bit slow compared to developed countries.
However, as many advancements as Pakistan has made regarding emerging technologies, there are still significant risks and challenges, such as digital divide. Urban areas benefiting from emerging technologies while rural regions are often lacking the infrastructure and literacy to access these advancements. As the rise in digitalization in Pakistan has increased vulnerability to cyber threats, with less solutions and methods to combat them.
In order to compete in this emerging technologies race, it is imperative that Pakistan fix the skill gap. The necessity for education in S.T.E.M - related fields and vocational training has never been more crucial, as preparing future generations for the workforce requires equipping them with the necessary knowledge and education related to emerging technologies in every domain. This requires support in terms of funding and investment. Limited access to capital for startups and a lack of local R&D facilities hinder rapid adoption and innovation. Internet outages and limited high-speed access cost Pakistan's IT sector approximately $1 million per hour in 2023. Infrastructure and policy improvements are crucial to fully capitalize on emerging technologies. Pakistan must confront this in order to ensure better technological and economical development and growth in Pakistan.
Emerging technologies offer immense potential for addressing Pakistan’s socioeconomic state, improving its economy through modernizing and digitizing its industries. In short, this requires continued investment and financial funding, education and skill development programs, and policies fostering innovation and public-driven partnerships. If these solutions are implemented, then Pakistan could be propelled into a completely new era - one of bold development and global competitiveness.
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