Artificial intelligence, SMEs and workforce development will play a pivotal role in accelerating Pakistan’s digital transformation, SAP executives said during a media roundtable held alongside SAP Innovation Day. Saqib Sabah, Head of MEA North Growth Cluster at SAP, said Pakistan possesses strong talent, educational foundations and ambition to contribute to the regional and global technology ecosystem.

Ahmed Al Faifi, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Middle East and Africa North at SAP, stressed that businesses must adopt a clear strategy for integrating AI with enterprise data, processes and people to unlock its full value.

SAP officials noted that digitalisation could help SMEs, particularly exporters, improve traceability, compliance, sustainability reporting and governance, enhancing their competitiveness in international markets.

SAP also reaffirmed its commitment to advancing education and skills development, noting that approximately 400,000 students have benefited from training through its global initiatives over the past five years.

In Pakistan, SAP continues to strengthen its engagement with key public-sector stakeholders, including the Higher Education Commission (HEC), the Ministry of Information Technology and the Government of Pakistan, with further opportunities for collaboration and potential developments.

Participants emphasized that investments in education, skills development, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure will be essential to building a future-ready workforce and supporting sustainable economic growth.