The Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, has underscored the importance of grounding modern professions in Islamic ethics amid the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence, during the 36th General International Conference of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs held in Cairo on January 19–20, 2026.
Addressing ministers, scholars, researchers, and delegates from across the Muslim world, the Pakistani delegation described the conference theme, “Professions in Islam: Their Impact and Their Future in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” as a timely reflection of the need to reconcile technological transformation with moral and spiritual values.
The speech highlighted Cairo’s historic role as a center of Islamic learning and moderation, and expressed appreciation to the Egyptian government and the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs for hosting a forum that brings together faith-based perspectives and contemporary challenges.
Islamic teachings, the address noted, confer dignity and sanctity upon all lawful professions, viewing work not merely as an economic activity but as an act of worship when performed with honesty, excellence, and service to society. Reference was made to the Prophet Muhammad’s emphasis on lawful earning and the long tradition of ethical professionalism that enabled Islamic civilization to flourish in fields such as education, medicine, governance, agriculture, and trade.
The concept of collective responsibility (Farḍ Kifāyah) was also emphasized, stressing that communities are morally obliged to ensure the availability of essential professions, as their absence can lead to social, economic, and ethical imbalance.
Turning to the impact of Artificial Intelligence, the address acknowledged its vast potential in areas such as healthcare, education, research, administration, and religious services, while warning of ethical risks including job displacement, data misuse, algorithmic bias, and the erosion of human values. It was stressed that Islam encourages innovation and the pursuit of knowledge, but within a framework that preserves human dignity, justice, accountability, and the public good.
Artificial Intelligence, the speech noted, should be treated as a trust (Amānah) and a tool in the service of humanity, not as an authority that replaces human moral responsibility. Decisions of critical importance, it argued, must always remain subject to human oversight.
The role of religious institutions and scholars was highlighted as central to guiding this transition, calling for closer cooperation between theologians, scientists, technologists, and policymakers. The need to equip future religious scholars with technological awareness, and professionals with ethical and spiritual grounding, was described as an urgent priority.
From Pakistan’s perspective, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical education, responsible use of technology, and dialogue between religious and professional communities.
The address concluded that the future of professions in the age of Artificial Intelligence will be shaped not only by technological capability, but by the values that govern its use. Islamic principles, it said, offer a moral compass to ensure progress without injustice, innovation without dehumanization, and development aligned with the higher objectives of mercy, justice, and human well-being.
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