SAP Highlights AI, SMEs and Skilled Workforce as Key Drivers of Pakistan’s Digital Economy

SAP executives say businesses need a clear AI strategy, stronger digital systems and continuous skills development to benefit from Pakistan’s growing technology opportunities.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), education and workforce development are emerging as major drivers of Pakistan’s digital economy, according to executives of global technology company SAP.

Speaking at a media roundtable held alongside SAP Innovation Day, company leaders highlighted Pakistan’s potential to strengthen its position in the regional and global technology ecosystem. They emphasised that businesses must combine technology adoption with investment in skills, infrastructure and digital capabilities to achieve sustainable growth.

Saqib Sabah, Head of MEA North Growth Cluster at SAP, said Pakistan had strong educational foundations, talented professionals and the ambition to develop its technology sector. He described the country’s willingness to learn and adapt as an important advantage in the evolving digital economy.

Ahmed Al Faifi, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Middle East and Africa North at SAP, stressed that businesses needed a clear strategy before investing in AI. He said successful adoption required connecting AI with enterprise data, business processes and employees.

Al Faifi cautioned that adopting AI without integrating it into existing business operations could increase costs and complexity instead of delivering meaningful value. He noted that companies should focus on practical applications that support their operations and business objectives.

The discussion also highlighted opportunities for Pakistan’s SME sector, particularly exporters. Digital systems can help smaller businesses improve record-keeping, product traceability, regulatory compliance, sustainability reporting and corporate governance. These capabilities can strengthen their competitiveness and help them meet the requirements of international markets.

Education and workforce development also emerged as central priorities for Pakistan’s digital transformation. Al Faifi emphasised the need for continuous learning and stronger digital literacy to prepare professionals for wider AI adoption.

SAP highlighted its education initiatives, reporting that it had supported approximately 400,000 student training days over the past five years. The company also confirmed its ongoing engagement with the Higher Education Commission, the Ministry of Information Technology and the Government of Pakistan. Further developments could be announced in the coming weeks.

The roundtable concluded with a focus on strengthening Pakistan’s digital foundations through education, infrastructure, cybersecurity and continuous skills development.

The discussion underscored the importance of preparing businesses and the workforce to benefit from emerging technologies, while ensuring that digital investments deliver practical results across Pakistan’s economy.