Fintech, Karandaaz sign agreement

ISLAMABAD: Information Technology University (ITU) of Punjab and Karandaaz Pakistan on Wednesday signed an agreement to initiate three research projects through the Fintech Centre at ITU.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by a delegation of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), which provides funding support to Karandaaz to promote financial inclusion of individuals through digital technologies.

BMGF Financial Services for the Poor Deputy Director Jason Lamb said, “We believe more knowledge and research will help trigger greater financial inclusion of women through technology in Pakistan. It is heartening to see academicians stepping up to work closely with the industry in solving issues and that Karandaaz and ITU have partnered to make this possible.”

ITU founding Vice Chancellor and PITB Chairman Dr Umar Saif said, “This collaboration would help Pakistan reform the digital financial services especially with inclusion of women.”

Karandaaz Pakistan CEO Ali Sarfraz said, “To make any tangible progress on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, Pakistan needs to act immediately to ensure women’s participation in the process of development.”