Episode 8 of Lit’EDTech Fiesta covers the efforts Wardah Noor is doing through KhudKaar to fight poverty in her hometown Layyah. Daastan and Khudkaar partnered before to bring you LitTech Layyah, a literary festival. For episode 8, we have once again partnered with Wardah Noor. Today’s session focuses solely on the importance of Digital Literacy in fighting poverty.
Fighting Poverty through Digital Literacy- A case study of KhudKaar House
Wardah Noor, a law student from LUMS can be considered as the face of the current generation’s fight against poverty. Her foundation, KhudKaar, is seen as a symbol of resistance and change in a world helplessly stuck in the poverty cycle. It aspires to change lives within the 6 month time frame through its vocational program.
KhudKaar and Poverty
Ms. Noor has transformed her lived experiences into a wonderful alternate reality for the residents of Layyah. Moreover, by choosing to opt for a more sustainable model of poverty alleviation, KhudKaar aims to change lives. Khudkaar intends to do that by introducing students and families to skills, exposure and a networking system. Ms. Noor’s selfless drive to better the living conditions of Layyah is undeniable. For instance, did you know that a part of the community center is within her own house?
She did face some resistance initially from her family when she deviated from the stable path of MBBS. However, they soon came to terms with her career choice and are incredibly supportive of her in all aspects.
Digital Literacy- A weapon against Poverty
Within the poverty alleviation program, digital literacy is heavily emphasized by KhudKaar. This significance is also derived from Ms. Noor’s own personal experiences.
“If a person is digitally literate He/She Would not know how to brand themselves”. – Wardah Noor
Ms. Noor uses her digital platforms to amplify the voices of the downtrodden. In addition, she hopes to empower the youth of Layyah with the same skillset as it would allow them to finally break the cycle.
Poverty, the Government and the People
Although it has only been 3 months since the inception of KhudKaar community center, Ms. Noor has a comprehensive long term plan. By the end of 2030 she hopes to encourage the creation of small businesses and agricultural research labs. Increase in digital literacy and creating platforms for artists to sell their art are also on her priority list.
However, in order to bring forth change on a wider scale, dialogue with the government has been started. On a policy level, the team is in contact with the district administration. Likewise, in terms of funding they are vying for collaboration with the Punjab Skills Development Fund.
Wardah Noor’s Message
Ms. Noor ends the talk on the note that there are almost harmful levels of self-interest present in individuals today while thinking about their careers. She advises to the audience to keep a balance between self-interest and valuing the community.
“Regardless of what one chooses to do, consequent contribution to the community in order to not only advance individually but on a societal level is necessary”.
You can stream the full episode here. Stay tuned for the upcoming episodes of Lit’EdTech Fiesta!
