On Monday, 30^th March 2026, a panel discussion on Business Start-up and the Role of Innovation / Technology in the Knowledge Economy and Gig Economy was held for the participants of the 39^th Senior Management Course (SMC) at the National Institute of Public Administration, Lahore. The session featured Dr. Muhammad Shoaib Farooq and Mr. Badar Khushnood as panellists and focused on emerging economic models driven by innovation and digital transformation.

The panellists highlighted the importance of innovative entrepreneurship and structured business startup planning in a rapidly evolving global economy. They discussed how technology-driven enterprises are reshaping traditional business models and creating new avenues for growth, particularly in developing economies. They emphasized identifying market gaps, leveraging digital tools, and fostering an enabling ecosystem for start-ups.

The panellists also examined the growth and development of the knowledge economy, outlining key challenges such as limited digital infrastructure, skill gaps, regulatory constraints, and access to financing. The panellists stressed that countries that invest in human capital, research, and innovation are better positioned to compete in the global knowledge economy.

A significant focus of the session was the role of civil servants in understanding and facilitating the transition toward a knowledge-based economy. The panellists emphasized the need for policy frameworks that support innovation, encourage entrepreneurship, and promote digital inclusion.

The panel discussion was followed by a Q&A session.