The recent Human Development Report published by the UNDP presents a stark reminder of Pakistan's precarious position in the global digital and economic order. Ranked among the 26 countries with the lowest Human Development Index, Pakistan is at a critical inflexion point - one where the decisions made today will determine whether it advances with the rest of the world or is left further behind.

The theme of this year's report focuses on AI and its vast potential to accelerate human development. While many nations have begun leveraging AI to enhance economic productivity, improve governance and reform public service delivery, Pakistan's digital ecosystem remains largely unchanged. This is despite the country being home to one of the largest freelancing communities globally and a promising, youthful tech workforce.

Unfortunately, as the report highlights, Pakistan has not capitalised on its digital potential. Digital inequalities, shaped by broader socioeconomic divides, continue to restrict access to education, infrastructure and opportunity.........

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