**UN Women and KOICA Launch Digital Startup Roundtable to Empower Young Women in Pakistan’s Tech Sector**
UN Women Pakistan, in partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), has launched the inaugural Digital Startup Roundtable Series in Islamabad, as part of the Digitalization for Women’s Economic Empowerment (D4WEE) project. The initiative aims to enhance the participation of young women in Pakistan’s expanding digital economy by fostering collaboration among policymakers, development partners, and women entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the event, Jacqui Ketunuti, Deputy Country Representative of UN Women Pakistan, highlighted the imperative of gender inclusion in the evolving digital landscape. “In today’s rapidly evolving digital economy, leaving women behind is not an option,” said Ketunuti, urging stakeholders to invest in women, facilitate mentorships, and ensure that women’s voices contribute to shaping Pakistan’s digital future.
Sodam Baek, Deputy Director of KOICA Pakistan Office, reiterated the partnership’s commitment to inclusivity. Baek emphasized that accessible and inclusive technology serves as a powerful leveler, noting, “KOICA is proud to support initiatives that equip young women with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy.”
The roundtable addressed two central themes. The first session focused on policy and infrastructure, where participants discussed the structural challenges faced by women in achieving digital inclusion. The second session explored practical strategies to bolster women-led startups, including mentorship programs, improving access to finance, and creating market linkages.
The D4WEE project, implemented in six cities across Pakistan such as Lahore and Peshawar, seeks to bridge the nation’s digital divide. Its core mission is to ensure that women aged 18 to 35 have equitable access to opportunities in the burgeoning technology sector, ultimately strengthening women’s economic empowerment nationwide.
