Artificial intelligence integration in medical education in Pakistan: Current landscape, challenges, and future prospects

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare worldwide, and Pakistan’s medical schools are increasingly recognizing its potential. This review synthesizes research on the integration of AI into medical education across Pakistan, focusing on the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of medical students and educators, as well as institutional efforts and policy developments. Studies from 2019 to 2025 indicate strong enthusiasm among Pakistani medical students for AI, with the majority acknowledging its importance for their future careers. However, a significant gap exists between this enthusiasm and actual proficiency in AI, with many students reporting limited exposure to the technology in their curricula. In September 2025, Aga Khan University introduced a five-year integrated AI curriculum for MBBS and nursing students, representing a notable institutional initiative in AI-oriented medical education. Simultaneously, the National AI Policy 2025 is encouraging AI integration across sectors, including healthcare, through government funding, the creation of Centres of Excellence, and organized training initiatives. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Many educators feel unprepared to teach AI due to insufficient training opportunities, and technical infrastructure in medical schools is often inadequate. Ethical concerns, particularly Around AI accuracy, fairness, and data ownership, continue to present significant obstacles. This review outlines these challenges and proposes a phased framework intended to support the responsible integration of AI into medical education in Pakistan.