On March 30th, the Missions of Ireland, Estonia, and Malaysia organized a hybrid-format event to discuss the role of innovation and technology in achieving gender equality. The event highlighted the success of UNRWA’s IT Service Centre (ITSC) in Gaza, which has become the largest IT employer in the region and has contributed to employment opportunities and livelihoods for many.
With over 40% of its staff female, ITSC has become a place of empowerment for young women in the innovation and technology sector. Ms. Hala Shaheen, IMTD Communications Aide, introduced the audience to the center and its cutting-edge IT solutions for UNRWA and other United Nations agencies.
The event also featured a panel discussion with three young Palestine refugee women who have benefited from the UNRWA IT Service Centre in pursuing professional careers in the IT sector. The audience was inspired to hear how the center has transformed the lives of Palestine refugees.
The primary goal of the event was to facilitate a discussion on how to create synergies in the field of digitalization to enhance gender equality in UNRWA’s five fields of operations. It also aimed to connect and showcase the achievements of Palestine refugee women in the IT sector and strengthen their ties with their peers.
Overall, the event demonstrated the progress made towards achieving gender equality through inclusive and equitable education and employment opportunities, especially for young women.