Abdul Rahim Ahmad, the dynamic CIO and CISO at the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Special Technology Zone Authority (STZA), shares his insights on Pakistan’s digital journey, challenges, and aspirations.
In a candid interview with Tech Drive, Ahmad delved into the intricacies of transforming Pakistan’s public sector through technology, the potential of the tech sector, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
A Public Servant’s Passion for Digital Innovation
Ahmad’s journey from the private sector to the public sector was driven by a desire to contribute to Pakistan’s digital transformation. His experience in the financial sector and technology, coupled with his passion for innovation, made him an ideal fit for the SECP.
“The SECP was a natural fit for me,” Ahmad explained. “It’s a financial regulator with a clear mandate to modernize and improve its services. As CIO and CISO, I was tasked with leveraging technology to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and provide better services to businesses and citizens.”
Despite the challenges inherent in working within the public sector, Ahmad’s determination and the support of the SECP’s leadership allowed him to make significant strides in digitizing the organization’s operations. “We focused on automating manual processes, digitizing records, and reducing registration timelines for businesses,” he said. “These efforts contributed to Pakistan’s improved ranking on the World Bank’s ease of doing business index.”
Shaping Pakistan’s Tech Future: The Role of STZA
As the CIO of STZA, Ahmad is at the forefront of creating a conducive environment for the growth of Pakistan’s tech sector. The authority’s specialized tech zones offer a range of incentives, including tax holidays, subsidized land, and streamlined regulatory processes, to attract tech companies and promote innovation.
“The idea behind the tech zones is to create a vibrant ecosystem where startups, SMEs, and larger tech firms can collaborate, innovate, and grow,” Ahmad explained. “By providing a supportive environment and essential infrastructure, we aim to foster a thriving tech ecosystem that can drive economic growth and create jobs.”
One of the key challenges facing Pakistan’s tech sector is the reliance on imports for critical components. Ahmad acknowledged this issue and emphasized the need for domestic manufacturing capabilities. “We’re working closely with the government to provide incentives and support for companies looking to establish manufacturing facilities within the tech zones,” he said. “By promoting local manufacturing, we can reduce our dependence on imports and create more opportunities for domestic businesses.”
Human Capital Development: A Cornerstone of Pakistan’s Tech Future
Ahmad also highlighted the importance of human capital development in the tech sector. “We need to ensure that our workforce has the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in the global market,” he said. “By collaborating with universities, research institutions, and industry partners, we can develop a pipeline of talented individuals who can drive innovation and contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth.”
The Future of Pakistan’s Tech Sector
Looking ahead, Ahmad expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan’s tech sector. He pointed to the growing startup ecosystem, increasing foreign investment, and the government’s commitment to digital transformation as key drivers of growth.
“With the right policies and support, Pakistan can become a major player in the global tech landscape,” he concluded. “We have the talent, the potential, and the opportunity to build a thriving digital economy that benefits our citizens and contributes to our nation’s development.”
