A Powerful, Inspiring Backstory
AI Pre-Literacy was founded by two retired professors with a combined experience of 70+ years in higher education. Their careers span research and academic leadership across Pakistan and the UK; both earned their Ph.Ds from the University of Southampton, UK—one focused on artificial intelligence and computing, the other on special education and child development. They have coined the term “AI pre-literacy.” AI pre-literacy refers to the emerging developmental foundations through which children encounter, notice, represent, interpret, discuss, and begin to orient themselves toward artificial intelligence and AI-mediated phenomena. It has four pillars: 1) AI-related vocabulary. 2) Imaginative and cognitive sense-making. 3) Attitudes and perceptions. 4) Emerging socio-ethical awareness. This platform sits at the intersection of both fields, because preparing children for an AI-driven world takes exactly that combination of expertise.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Anwar-ur-Rehman Pasha
Dr. M. A. Pasha holds a PhD.D. in Computer Science from the University of Southampton, UK. He spent over 35 years teaching and leading in higher education. Roles included Rector of IT-hub Sargodha. He was Chairman of Computer Science & IT at the University of Sargodha.
His research focused on artificial intelligence, knowledge management, and web-based systems. It produced two books and more than 30 published articles. His work spanned both theoretical exploration and practical applications. These outputs include several peer-reviewed publications. The research informed curricula and industry practices.
He also shaped national computing curricula in Pakistan. As Vice Chairman of the National Computing Education Accreditation Council, he guided standards. These efforts supported AI Pre-Literacy initiatives and broader education goals nationwide. His leadership helped colleges align with evolving digital competencies.
Prof. Dr. Shaheen Pasha
Dr. Shaheen Pasha holds a PhD.D. in Special Education from the University of Southampton, UK.
She led the Department of Special Education at the University of Education, Lahore, as Chairperson and Professor.
Earlier in her career, she directed the Center of Assistive & Rehabilitative Technologies in Southampton, UK.
Her research includes 30+ published articles and four books. It focuses on inclusive education, autism, early childhood care, and how children of all abilities learn best.
Together, they bring a rare combination — deep knowledge of the technology shaping our children’s world, and deep knowledge of how children actually learn — to the work of preparing the youngest generation for what’s already here.