A panel discussion at SAICON 2025 held in Islamabad brought together prominent voices from the technology and policy sectors to critically assess the state of Pakistan’s digital ecosystem. The session, titled “Tech-Driven Growth: Diagnosing Pakistan’s Digital Ecosystem,” was co-hosted by COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad Campus, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It provided a platform for stakeholders to explore how Pakistan can address digital development gaps and unlock greater potential through infrastructure reform and improved governance.
Held at COMSTECH, Islamabad, the session took place from 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM PST and was moderated by M. Majid Khan from COMSATS University Islamabad. The discussion brought into focus various structural, regulatory, and infrastructural barriers that continue to inhibit the country’s digital progress. The panel included Jordanka Tomkova, PhD, a specialist in digital development; Nasruminallah Mian, a policy expert; Parvez Iftikhar, a seasoned ICT consultant; Haroon Kanth, and Asfand Yar Khan, PMP®, each of whom contributed insights into specific aspects of the digital transformation journey.
Panelists examined current disparities in digital infrastructure across provinces and districts, with an emphasis on the uneven access to high-speed internet, broadband penetration, and gaps in basic ICT services. The need for greater public-private partnerships was also highlighted as a path to expanding digital access and ensuring that underserved areas receive adequate support through collaborative investment in digital infrastructure.
Participants also discussed digital governance frameworks, noting the necessity of simplifying regulatory processes and enabling more agile digital policy implementation. The session pointed to challenges in harmonizing federal and provincial approaches to technology development, which in many cases leads to delays in deployment and scalability of digital services.
The role of capacity building and skill development was underlined as another critical area. Panelists emphasized the need for upskilling initiatives that match the pace of technological advancement, ensuring that youth and professionals are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the country’s digital economy. There was also consensus around the importance of creating an enabling environment for startups and entrepreneurs, particularly in emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
The event served as a collaborative platform to evaluate the strengths and bottlenecks of Pakistan’s ICT landscape. By bringing together academic institutions, multilateral development partners, and domain experts, SAICON 2025 continues to act as a meaningful venue for strategic dialogue on digital growth.
The involvement of ADB in co-hosting this session reinforced the link between digital development and broader economic resilience. Their participation reflects a growing recognition of digital transformation as a foundational pillar in sustainable development and inclusive growth strategies. Through discussions like these, stakeholders are able to assess the tools and reforms needed to enhance Pakistan’s digital capabilities in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
