In a compelling call to action, energy scientists and economic experts have underscored the urgent need for Pakistan to prioritise the development of its agriculture, technology, and energy sectors. These industries, they argue, will not only dominate global markets but also shape the future of business and economic growth. The experts, speaking to The Express Tribune, emphasised that fostering these sectors is not just an option but a necessity for Pakistan’s economic development.
The agriculture sector, a cornerstone of human survival and food security, is more critical than ever. It generates employment in rural areas, curbing mass migration to urban centres and ensuring a steady food supply. Professor Dr S Zafar Nasir, Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology at DHA Suffa University Karachi, highlighted the transformative potential of technology in enhancing communication, efficiency, innovation, and connectivity. He noted that the energy sector, which powers homes, offices, industries, and transportation, is essential for reducing inefficiencies and improving productivity.
Nasir proposed that Pakistan can leapfrog into the global technological landscape by leveraging its young workforce through internet-based connectivity and knowledge-sharing with international professionals. He advocated for the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), suggesting that AI-focused education and training programmes, along with funding and mentorship for AI startups, could accelerate progress. Nasir also emphasised the importance of utilising data analytics in agriculture to enhance per-acre yields and conserve water reserves. He suggested that AI-based solutions could improve traffic management and energy efficiency, and that incentivising Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption through tax breaks and subsidies, along with investing in EV infrastructure, would boost the sector.
Dr Adeel Ghayur, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Allied Biorefinery, Australia, stressed the importance of a reliable and affordable energy sector for attracting foreign investment, boosting industrial output, and fostering technological advancements. He suggested that Pakistan prioritise the development of biofuels and distributed energy, which involves generating electricity from decentralised sources closer to the point of use. Ghayur also noted the increasing demand for renewable energy sources by AI and data centres, presenting an opportunity for Pakistan to position itself as a key player in both the AI and renewable energy sectors.
Veteran agriculturalist Nabi Bux Sathio urged the government to end the exploitation of farmers by establishing a transparent pricing mechanism. He highlighted that agriculture guarantees 100% food security and that ensuring farmers recover their costs and earn reasonable profits would boost crop yields and exports. Sathio warned of the economic disruption that could result from food insecurity and stressed the need for investing in agricultural R&D to achieve higher crop yields and ensure safe and sustainable food production.
