GovStack Celebrates the Graduation of the First Cohort of Women in GovTech Challenge 2023-2024

In a landmark celebration that marked a significant step forward in ensuring inclusive innovation, the first cohort of the Women in GovTech Challenge 2023-2024 successfully graduated. This initiative has been a beacon of empowerment for women in the digital transformation of public services.

Watch the Graduation Ceremony on YouTube

The graduation ceremony, attended by over 90 participants from around the world, was not just a celebration of completion but a testament to the dedication, and innovative spirit of women in GovTech. The initiative underscored the critical role of women in leading and transforming government technology and digital services, highlighting the achievements and future aspirations of pioneering women in the sector.

The ceremony featured inspiring remarks by key figures from partners that made the challenge possible, including, Katharina Mänz, Deputy Head of Division – Digital Technologies, BMZ in Germany, and Nele Leosk, Ambassador-at-Large for Digital Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia. Their messages reinforced the importance of feminist development policy, the value of taking risks, and the need for initiatives like the Women in GovTech Challenge to turn theoretical approaches into tangible outcomes. Gert Jervan, Dean at the School of Information Technologies at TalTech, emphasized the university’s commitment to creating an inclusive tech sector and fostering a sustainable digital future. Through collaboration with GovStack and dedication to inclusivity, TalTech is paving the way for women to excel in IT studies and digital innovation. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary General ITU congratulated the participants and mentors on their achievement and emphasized their role in ensuring inclusive innovation, world wide. Watch her message here!

The ceremony also spotlighted the impact stories and experiences of participants and mentors, who shared their learning journeys and the skills they acquired. From user-centric design to agile project management, the challenge provided a platform for professional growth and contribution to the digital public sector’s transformation. The initiative not only honed technical skills but also fostered leadership and innovation among the participants.

The initiative has created a strong network of women ready to lead and innovate in the GovTech sector. The challenge’s success is a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the remarkable power and potential of women in shaping the future of government technology and policy.

To further strengthen the community developed through the challenge, GovStack announces the setup of the Women in GovTech Challenge alumni network. This network will further advance gender equality in tech and foster a community of empowered women leaders ready to drive digital innovation in public services worldwide. The journey does not end here; it is just the beginning of a brighter, more inclusive, and innovative digital future.