Panel Discussion: GovStack Organizes Discussion on the Potential of GovTech in International Cooperation

How can government initiatives, academia and the private sector come together to make the most of GovTech’s potential in international cooperation? Joining forces and creating synergies between different actors is necessary to achieve GovStack’s mission to enable every citizen to exercise their right to government services via accessible technologies. In line with this, GovStack organized a panel discussion and networking event at the Hertie School in Berlin, in collaboration with the Centre for Digital Governance, Tabiya (University of Oxford), and Possible (formerly PUBLIC Deutschland).

Prof. Dr. Gerhard Hammerschmid from the Hertie School commenced the event by emphasizing the necessity of improved collaboration among government entities, civil society, and private GovTech companies. Following this, Yolanda Martínez (GovStack Lead at ITU), delivered a keynote speech focusing on practical productivity challenges and stressing the significance of sharing best practices, especially in negotiations with key stakeholders.

In the subsequent panel discussion, moderated by Puja Raghavan, (GovStack and Hertie School student), panelists including Andrea Donath (GovStack Lead, GIZ), Benny Bennet Jürgens (Founder, NECT), Yolanda Martínez, Christian Meyer (Tabiya and University of Oxford), and David Steinacker (Head of Partnerships, GovTech Campus Deutschland)—delved into the complex challenges and opportunities within the GovTech sector for enhancing governmental operations and digital transformation. They identified key pillars such as Interoperability, Flexibility, Partnerships, Platforms, and Evidence as crucial for the future of international GovTech collaboration.

Additionally, the discussion featured a video presentation by Chepkemoi Magdaline, the Founder of Eldohub in Kenya, offering insights into Kenya’s GovTech landscape. The interactive Q&A and networking session stimulated fruitful discussions on both the theoretical and practical aspects of GovTech globally.

By continuing to bridge the gap between academia, the private sector, and government, GovStack remains dedicated to catalyzing meaningful progress in international GovTech cooperation. We are looking forward to host similar events in the future.