Artificial Intelligence Reducing Job Opportunities in Pakistan’s IT Sector

Islamabad – Just like global markets, Pakistan’s IT industry is also witnessing the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on job opportunities. According to the latest PASHA Skills Survey 2025, the rise of AI-driven tools has led to a decline in hiring, despite the overall sector showing strong growth in recent years.

In the past year alone, the IT sector hired 32,685 technical professionals and 1,969 non-technical staff. However, with AI now capable of automating tasks that once required entire teams, many companies are cutting back on recruitment. Instead, they prefer hiring multi-skilled professionals who can combine technical knowledge with AI integration, data analysis, and workflow automation.

Shift Towards Multi-Skilled Professionals

The survey highlights that organizations are increasingly seeking employees who can not only code or design but also use AI to enhance productivity, generate insights, and automate repetitive tasks. Companies now want versatile team members who can manage multiple functions rather than relying on separate specialists.

As a result, adaptability and the ability to leverage AI in daily tasks have become essential for surviving in Pakistan’s competitive IT job market.

High-Demand Skills in 2025

The report outlines key skills and roles most sought after in the coming year:

• Fullstack Developers (with demand stronger for .NET than JavaScript).

• Python experts for modern web stacks.

• Mobile Developers specializing in React Native and Flutter, especially for entry-level roles.

• CRM Specialists in Salesforce and Dynamics, reflecting their role in digital transformation.

• Cloud Certifications, with AWS Developers in highest demand at the entry level, followed by Azure and DevOps skills across senior positions.

• Kubernetes expertise for senior roles in scaling infrastructure.

• Software Testing Professionals skilled in ISTQB, Selenium, and Cypress.

• Game Development and UI/UX design, which are booming for early-career professionals.

• Blockchain Development, particularly on Ethereum, for Web3 and smart contracts.

• Relational Databases such as Oracle, MySQL, and MS SQL, which remain foundational and widely demanded.

Industry Insights

The survey reflects data from 256 companies, showcasing hiring patterns across the IT ecosystem in Pakistan. It emphasizes that continuous upskilling is necessary to stay relevant as AI reshapes the job market.

P@SHA Senior Vice Chairman, Muhammad Umair Nizam, stated that human capital is the real asset of Pakistan’s IT sector. He stressed that investing in skills development and training the youth in emerging technologies is critical for boosting exports and preparing the workforce for the future.

He further added that while AI adoption poses a challenge by reducing certain roles, it also creates an opportunity for Pakistan to equip its young generation with advanced digital skills, ensuring better employment prospects and improved living standards.