Hifsa Raja

Artificial intelligence and modern technology could help in the development of every field and strengthen the national economy, an expert told WealthPK. Dr Nadeemul Haque, vice-chancellor of Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) and co-author of PIDE’s Charter of Economy, said artificial intelligence and technology could give people a full range of benefits.

“We should start with internet accessibility and online systems. The government should consider fully funding fast internet access across the country by the end of 2025. Till this time, we should not consider the generation of revenue through the sale of spectrum to telecom firms. Instead, the government should consider it in terms of internet access. This is how we can promote the tech-savvy generation. Internet connectivity is vital for learning and knowledge,’’ he said.

Dr Nadeem said that the nature of jobs was changing owing to the promotion of modern technology. “Artificial intelligence, information management and data processing have changed everything from education to knowledge-based professions. Now the management, development and transmission of data will change businesses,” he added.

He said that the use of the internet could improve goods and services in the country. Technology has changed the way of doing businesses. He said that mass production was possible with the help of technology and machines. He added that unskilled labour could be replaced with simple machines.

Dr Nadeem said that agricultural technologies are playing a vital role in creating food substitutes. “Through hydroponic technology and farm automation, the yield of traditional farms can be increased manifolds. Laboratory-made food is already available in the market. These can benefit the environment and save soil and water, as in hydroponic technology soil is not required to grow a plant. We need proper policies to adopt such technologies,” he added.

Modern technology can also promote urban farming as less space and fewer resources are required to grow the plants. Traditional farming is sustaining a large part of people’s needs in Pakistan but urban farming can also play its part in this regard.

Dr Nadeem said that biomedical science enabled many countries to produce the Covid-19 vaccine. Human augmentation is also a technological alteration of the body to enhance mental and physical capabilities. Synthetic biology also involves biotechnology. “Biomedical research will gain high value in the future. We could position ourselves to be part of the value chain being created through research,” he said.

He said that technology could also help in resolving the issues related to electricity. He said that the use of smart metering technology could shift electricity to pre-paid model. He said that government should focus on renewable sources for electricity generation. He added that the government should seriously consider leasing out retail areas to the private sector for electricity generation.

Dr Nadeem said that the government should ensure universal internet access throughout the country to promote technology adaptation. “Availability of the internet is the need of the hour. The internet can increase the literacy rate in the country through online education. Proper digitalisation is impossible without online systems. The internet creates freelancing opportunities and helps in promoting e-commerce,” he told WealthPK

Independent News Pakistan-Wealthpk