UN Women Pakistan and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) hosted the Empower HER Digital Tech Summit in Islamabad on Wednesday, bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and young women to explore the transformative power of digital skills for women’s economic empowerment.
Funded under KOICA’s Digital Transformation for Women’s Economic Empowerment (D4WEE) project, the Summit spotlighted strategies to close the gender gap in the digital economy. Through engaging panel discussions, exhibitions showcasing women-led tech innovations, and competitions celebrating digital creativity, the event emphasized the pivotal role of women in shaping Pakistan’s digital future.
“This summit serves as a catalyst for change,” said Mr. JamshedKazi, Country Representative, Designate, UN Women Pakistan, in his closing remarks. “Through collective action, we aim to ensure that young women are not just participants in the digital economy but leaders and innovators. When women succeed in the digital sector, it benefits families, communities, and society as a whole.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Je Ho Yeon, Country Director, KOICA Pakistan, remarked: “Empowering women in technology is not only about inclusion but also about driving innovation and economic growth. We are proud to partner with UN Women in equipping young women with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.”
A key highlight of the Summit was the “Digital Divas” Panel Discussion, where leading female tech pioneers Ms. Nadia Patel Gangjee (Founder & CEO, Femprow), Ms. FaizaYousuf (Co-founder & CPO, CaterpillHERS), and Ms. EramAhsan (Founder & CEO, CIRCLE Women) shared their personal journeys, success strategies, and insights on how women can thrive in digital spaces. Topics ranged from leveraging e-commerce to overcoming gender-based challenges in the tech sector. The interactive Q&A session provided participants with a chance to engage directly with the panelists. The event brought together over 100 young women, university students, tech enthusiasts, private sector leaders, and government representatives to inspire, educate, and empower women to pursue careers in the technology sector.
The Student Digitalization Initiative Showcase featured student teams from six universities in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Students presented innovative digitalization projects judged by an independent jury nominated by UN Women. The top three winners were awarded shields, and all participants received certificates of participation. The Summit also included a Digital Career Fair, where leading tech companies and startups showcased career and internship opportunities for women in the digital sector. Participants engaged with private sector representatives and explored interactive exhibits set up by local and international tech companies.
The event concluded with a Call to Action session, urging all stakeholders to actively support gender equality in the digital sector.
