A series of executive masterclasses hosted by A. F. Ferguson & Co., a member firm of the PwC network, brought together hundreds of professionals from Pakistan’s corporate sector to discuss cybersecurity, internal audit transformation, governance, and artificial intelligence. Conducted in Karachi, the sessions aimed to strengthen industry collaboration, encourage knowledge exchange, and support organisations in adapting to rapidly changing business and technology environments. The initiative highlighted growing interest among business leaders in practical learning, digital trust, and future readiness as companies continue to navigate operational shifts driven by technology and evolving risks.
The first executive session, titled Cybersecurity and Digital Trust Masterclass, gathered more than 100 professionals representing leading organisations from across Pakistan. According to organisers, the programme focused on strengthening cybersecurity awareness, improving digital trust frameworks, and facilitating discussions on challenges linked to securing business environments. Building on this momentum, the second executive masterclass, titled Redefining Internal Audit for a Changing World, welcomed over 130 senior professionals from more than 40 organisations. Participants included chief internal auditors, senior audit professionals, governance and compliance leaders, finance experts, and senior management executives who explored changing expectations in risk management and business oversight. Discussions during the session examined evolving governance frameworks, shifting risk landscapes, automation in internal audit functions, and the growing role of internal auditors as strategic advisors in organisational decision making.
The event also featured contributions from local and international professionals who shared insights on governance, audit transformation, and emerging business practices. Shaun Willcocks, PwC Global Internal Audit Leader and PwC Global Risk Markets Leader, participated in the programme and provided perspectives based on international industry practices. M Abdul Aleem, CEO and Secretary General of OICCI, also joined the session and shared views on board level expectations and governance priorities. The programme included an inaugural keynote delivered by Salman Hussain, while the masterclass was led by Tahir Sharif and Muhammad Shahzad. Additional contributions came from Khurram Latif and Syed Ainullah, while Saad Kaliya led discussions focused on AI and technology audit. Organisers also acknowledged the role of Tufail Ahmed in coordinating the event and supporting AFF Academy initiatives.
Following the engagement from the corporate community, A. F. Ferguson & Co. announced its third executive masterclass titled AI Strategy to Practical Implementation, scheduled to take place in Karachi on June 17, 2026. The upcoming session will focus on helping organisations transform artificial intelligence into a practical business tool for improving efficiency, enhancing decision making, and delivering measurable business performance. Organisers said participation and feedback from Pakistan’s business community indicate increasing demand for applied learning and actionable frameworks rather than theoretical discussions. As organisations continue adapting to technological change, executive education programmes are increasingly becoming a platform for professionals seeking practical implementation strategies and long term organisational readiness.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
