Strategic Partnership to Foster Digital Inclusion and Innovation
The Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) and Telenor Pakistan have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate innovation, promote digital inclusion, and empower youth across Pakistan. This partnership is designed to strengthen Pakistan’s technology sector by nurturing young talent, supporting local tech companies, and enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure in line with STZA’s mandate.
Collaboration to Promote Emerging Technologies and Youth Development
The MoU was signed by Mr. Aamer Saleemi, Executive Director Zones & Zones Developer/Member at STZA, and Ms. Areej Khan, Chief People Officer at Telenor Pakistan, during a ceremony attended by key leaders from both organizations, including Khurrum Ashfaque, CEO of Telenor Pakistan, and Mr. Hamza Saeed Orakzai, Chief Market Development Officer at STZA, among others.
Through this partnership, STZA will work with stakeholders to expand youth initiatives within Special Technology Zones (STZs), advocate for policy development in emerging technologies such as agritech, edtech, and fintech, and promote youth skill development programs. The initiative also aims to connect local innovators with global networks to strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global technology ecosystem.
Telenor Pakistan’s Role in Supporting Local Technology Companies
Parallelly, Telenor Pakistan will leverage its Telenor Velocity platform to support local technology companies and launch youth development initiatives. These initiatives will include innovation challenges and hackathons designed to identify and nurture the next generation of digital leaders in Pakistan.
Statements from Key Leaders
Mr. Aamer Saleemi, Executive Director at STZA, commented, “This MoU represents a significant milestone in strengthening Pakistan’s digital ecosystem. Through this collaboration with Telenor Pakistan, we aim to provide valuable opportunities for startups and tech companies while nurturing the leaders of tomorrow through youth-focused programs. Together, we aim to bridge the gap between local and global innovation, positioning Pakistan as a thriving center for technology and innovation.”
Khurrum Ashfaque, CEO at Telenor Pakistan, added, “This partnership underscores our commitment to empowering local technology innovators and fostering a culture of innovation in Pakistan. By working together with STZA, we can create meaningful opportunities for youth development, advance emerging technologies, and position Pakistan as a prominent technology hub. This collaboration marks an important step towards a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for Pakistan.”
Empowering Future Tech Leaders
Mr. Hamza Saeed Orakzai, Chief Market Development Officer at STZA, emphasized, “This partnership with Telenor Pakistan aligns with our mission to build a robust technology ecosystem. By integrating global expertise with local talent, we aim to catalyze growth, foster innovation, and empower the next generation of tech leaders. This MoU is not just a formal agreement; it is a shared commitment to shaping Pakistan’s digital future.”
