Pakistan Launches NOOR AI Chatbot to Assist Disabled Persons

Pakistan Launches NOOR AI Chatbot for Persons With Disabilities

Pakistan has developed its first AI chatbot, NOOR AI, to support persons with disabilities, especially women, who often have barriers to accessing their basic rights and services.

NOOR AI has been developed with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), NACTA, and the European Union (EU). NOOR AI was launched at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), attended by government representatives, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and academic professionals. NOOR AI is a multilingual, accessible digital tool with confidential support on many issues that include: disability rights, education, job opportunities, legal aid, and protections from gender-based violence. It also promotes peace by disseminating information to raise awareness about preventing violent extremism (PVE).

Muhammad Atif Sheikh, Executive Director of STEP, reported that NOOR AI helps empower youth and women with disabilities, particularly in areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the communities experience double marginalisation.“NOOR AI is not just a chatbot: it’s a tool for peace, support, and digital inclusion,” added Sheikh. Abia Akram, whom we met earlier as STEP’s Director of Programmes, called for stronger disability-inclusive policies, while noting it’s time we lifted persons with disabilities to the level of leaders, not just recipients. This initiative hopes to create a more inclusive and peaceful society through the use of technology to close the gaps in awareness, access, and rights.