Experts Warn AI Could Deepen Inequality Without Digital Skills Push for Women in Pakistan

A panel of experts at the Gender & Economy Conference in Pakistan warned that artificial intelligence (AI) could either empower women economically or exacerbate existing inequalities, depending on access to education and digital skills. Moderated by LUMS faculty member Warda Riaz, the discussion featured contributions from Fyeza Jehan, Usman Ali, Adnan Khan, and M. Farhan Majid. They argued that women’s economic empowerment hinges on their capabilities and bargaining power, with low-cost learning opportunities and digital skill-building initiatives needed to overcome structural barriers. The panel highlighted survey findings from the Asher Blair Foundation, showing that women entrepreneurs from 80 countries are eager to adopt generative AI for tasks like accounting, payroll, and administrative work. AI could streamline operations for women-led businesses by reducing manual processes and improving efficiency, they noted. Pakistan’s women-centric digital economy could reach a market value of $500 million, given its 73 million female population, but current low education and literacy levels threaten this potential. Experts cautioned that without intervention, AI-driven advancements could widen inequality, leaving less-skilled communities behind. They warned that inadequate digital capacity-building risks lower productivity, higher import dependence, and global competitiveness gaps. The discussion stressed that unequal technology access could push economies toward stagnation while digitally advanced nations scale efficiently. The panel concluded by urging urgent investment in women’s digital education to ensure equitable economic growth. They emphasized that inclusive access to AI and technology-driven skills is critical for leveling the playing field and unlocking Pakistan’s economic potential.