Startup connects Austin and Pakistan through virtual reality

A local education startup called PenPal Schools is bringing together students in Austin and Pakistan for a history lesson – in virtual reality. Using VR content on smartphones, students will soon be able to tour cultural attractions in Lahore. This long-distance cultural exchange is part of the city’s ATX + PAK Launch Entrepreneurship Program, a partnership with the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce and the Information Technology University of Pakistan that aims to bring together and support risk-takers in both places. Six of the most promising Pakistani startups will be in Austin until March 18 in order to “explore collaboration, partnership and investment opportunities,” according to a Tuesday press release.