Youth and the Future of AI
Pakistan’s population is made up of nearly 64% youth. According to Professor Dr. Shams Hamid, this group must be equipped with the skills of artificial intelligence (AI) and future insight to become leaders of the new era rather than passive consumers. He highlighted that elderly citizens should also learn these skills so they can guide the younger generation more effectively.
The Session at Arts Council Karachi
The Writers and Readers Cafe recently hosted its 135th session at the Josh Malihabadi Library in the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi. The event, titled “Artificial Intelligence: An Intellectual Revolution,” gathered teachers, writers, and a large number of students to explore the growing impact of AI on Pakistan’s education and society.
AI as a Partner, Not a Replacement
Dr. Shams Hamid, a philosopher, futurist, and poet, introduced the concept of relational intelligence. He explained that artificial intelligence should not be viewed as a replacement for human creativity but rather as a collaborator. “This technology cannot act alone; it requires human imagination, values, and insight,” he said. By combining machine capabilities with human creativity, solutions can emerge that neither could achieve independently.
Productivity and Social Equity
Citing global statistics, Dr. Shams noted that AI adoption could increase productivity by 20–30% and generate cost savings of up to 50% in some sectors. However, he cautioned that these benefits must reach disadvantaged communities in local languages. Otherwise, knowledge will remain confined to elites, widening existing social divides.
Education and Future Insight
Dr. Salman Ahmed Khatani, Associate Professor at Iqra University, emphasized that future insight should be part of Pakistan’s education system. He explained that many societies already use AI for adaptive learning in schools, diagnosis in healthcare, operational improvements in business, and better governance in cities. With proper guidance, Pakistan’s youth can use AI to reduce inequalities and create positive societal change.
The Human Side of Technology
Speakers agreed that AI’s success should not be measured by financial gain alone. Instead, its true achievement lies in fostering trust, empathy, and human dignity. Literature, culture, and poetry, they added, will always be vital in ensuring that technology aligns with human values.
The session concluded with remarks from Dr. Tanveer Anjum, founder of Writers and Readers Cafe, who moderated the discussion and expressed gratitude to participants for their insights.
