LAHORE(National times)- Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif made the use of artificial intelligence (AI) mandatory in schools across Punjab. For the first time in the country’s history, AI training for Punjab’s ministers has been launched under the direct leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The official ministers’ workshop titled “Empowering Punjab with AI” formally commenced with the attendance of cabinet members. During the workshop, members of the Punjab cabinet were briefed on the effective use of Gemini and other AI tools, policy frameworks, operational policy-making, sectoral reforms, and the role of AI in governance. Discussions also covered policy summary analysis, preparation of summaries, and the use of Google tools. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said digital technology has the potential to transform thinking and working methods. She emphasized that AI support is indispensable for reforms and policymaking, adding that responsible use of AI tools can bring positive change. Google for Education experts briefed the chief minister on initiatives including master training for 3,000 teachers in Punjab, issuance of IDs to over 300,000 students in the School Education Department, training of 200,000 students and 2,000 teachers under the Punjab Education Foundation, and other measures. Details were also shared about 1,000 scholarships across ten organizations to promote digital journalism. The Google team also appreciated the declaration of the year as the “Year of Youth” and paid tribute to the blend of history and culture in a city like Lahore.