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Accelerating AI-Driven Ecosystems: Government, Industry, Academia – From Insights to Impact 2026
The ESG and Data for Good Center of Excellence hosted a roundtable at The Arab Academy for Management, Banking and Financial Sciences (AAMBFS) on 24 August, 2026. The roundtable brought together leaders and experts from government, industry, and academia for an open, cross-sector dialogue on accelerating AI adoption and building an ecosystem capable of translating AI strategies, research, and investments into real-world impact.
The roundtable featured contributions from the following experts:
- Dr. Amany Shousha — Information Technology Institute (ITI), Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)
Head of Software Testing and Quality Assurance - Dr. Tamer Karam — The Arab Academy for Management, Banking and Financial Sciences (AAMBFS)
Strategy Professor, Advisor & Executive Trainer - Eng. Ahmed Rashad — HERE Technologies
Manager, MEA Product Partnerships - Eng. Tamer Fadi — INCUBE
Regional Director- Africa & Egypt Offices Chairman - Ahmed Kamal — Senior Global Program Manager, SAS
- Dr. Ahmed Tealab — The Arab Academy for Management, Banking and Financial Sciences (AAMBFS)
Assistant Professor of Information Systems & Digital Transformation Consultant
The roundtable, titled “Accelerating AI-Driven Ecosystems: Government, Industry, Academia – From Insights to Impact 2026,” focused on one of the key challenges facing the AI landscape today: moving beyond isolated pilots and policies toward scalable, responsible, and sustainable impact. Participants explored how government, industry, and academia can work together to shape and govern an AI ecosystem that connects research and national AI strategies with practical applications and measurable outcomes.
The discussion examined the collaboration models and governance approaches needed to accelerate AI at scale, alongside the role of data readiness, data governance, talent development, and trust as essential enablers for sustainable AI adoption. Speakers also discussed the importance of stronger connections between research and industry, building the capabilities needed for AI adoption, and identifying practical opportunities for AI to create value across sectors.
Across the discussion, panelists emphasized the need for coordinated action across government, industry, and academia, with each sector playing a clear role in strengthening the AI ecosystem. The conversation highlighted the importance of moving from ambition to practical action, creating stronger pathways for knowledge and technology transfer, developing AI-ready talent, strengthening data foundations and governance, and fostering responsible approaches that support long-term economic and societal impact.
The full roundtable report, including key insights and consolidated recommendations from the participating experts, is now available.