The conference highlighted the increasing momentum for digital adoption across sectors in Pakistan, aiming to leverage technology as a catalyst for growth and resilience.

Hosted by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) and various partners, the conference attracted scholars, policymakers, and economists from both Pakistan and abroad, facilitating extensive discussions and policy dialogues.

Senator Dar advocated for revising the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award to eliminate overlapping federal bodies and enhance provincial autonomy in governance and resource management.

The conference aimed to bring together economists, technologists, policymakers, and global thought leaders to discuss strategies for harnessing digital transformation.

The 38th Annual Conference of the Pakistan Society of Development Economists (PSDE) concluded on April 17, 2025, at Quaid-i-Azam University, focusing on the theme 'URAAN Pakistan: growth through digital transformation.'

With three main objectives, the conference sought to accelerate digital transformation through policy, adapt global insights to Pakistan's context, and emphasize inclusive growth for youth, women, and underserved communities.

Dr. Nadeem Javaid, Vice-Chancellor of PIDE, underscored the urgency of digital transformation, stating it is essential for Pakistan's growth and future opportunities.

During the Mahbub Ul Haq Memorial Lecture, Mohammad J. Sear discussed the evolving concept of sovereignty in the digital age, emphasizing the need for Pakistan to invest in digital ecosystems and AI to maintain autonomy.

A keynote panel featured Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, who emphasized the critical role of provincial governments in digital transformation and called for innovative provincial initiatives in areas like education and agriculture.

Technical sessions addressed Pakistan's challenges in digital readiness, projecting that reforms could increase GDP growth by 1.8% annually by 2030.

Sessions explored various topics, including e-governance, digital transformation in trade, and the need for tailored strategies to enhance economic participation and digital literacy among rural populations.

Keynote addresses from Nobel Laureates Michael Spence, Pier Paolo Saviotti, and Muhammad J. Sear provided an international perspective on digital development.