Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province, has faced long-standing challenges in accessing basic resources and technology, leading to a struggling rural population. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the digital divide in the country, leaving thousands of students unable to attend online classes due to internet inaccessibility and unavailability. However, the WANG Lab of Innovation (WALI) is working to bridge the gap and provide opportunities for Balochistan’s rural communities.
Led by co-founder Qaisar , WALI is the first rural innovation lab in the region, with a commitment to empowering rural communities through innovation and technology.
WALI’s solar-powered facility is equipped with cutting-edge digital technologies, including computers, laptops, multimedia devices, and high-definition televisions, ensuring uninterrupted high-speed internet connectivity through its dedicated internet tower.
WALI’s program offerings focus on bringing high-quality education and learning opportunities to rural children, youth, women, smallholder farmers, local businesses, and artists. Its WALI Class program aims to reduce distance and financial stress by bringing qualified teachers, mentors, and gurus online to teach students in a high-quality learning environment. The program focuses first on English learning and basic computer abilities.
WALI Studio is another program aimed at creating a platform for rural artists, folk singers, teachers, storytellers, and aspiring content creators, providing access to content creation equipment, space, technical support, and media publishing.
Through WALI Zamindar, WALI collaborates with agricultural professionals to offer advanced knowledge and information to farmers through connectivity and regular interactions at WALI, addressing the lack of knowledge about modern techniques and weather forecasts.
WALI has already received recognition for its dedication to education and innovation, receiving prestigious awards, including the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s National Youth Excellence Awards and KHI-Awards by Karachi Electric.
WALI’s recent venture into artificial intelligence and natural language processing is another demonstration of its commitment to harnessing the power of technology to empower rural communities. Its new Urdu Chat GPT guide is helping individuals, institutes, and businesses enhance their productivity, creativity, and communication skills.
WALI’s work has had a significant impact on Balochistan’s rural communities, and its mission and impact are making it an example of how rural innovation labs can drive economic and social development in developing countries. By investing in education and providing access to cutting-edge technology, WALI is helping to create a more equitable and sustainable future for Balochistan’s rural communities.
WALI’s dedication to empowering Balochistan’s rural communities through innovation and technology is inspiring, and its work has the potential to create a brighter future for generations to come. Its programs and initiatives, combined with its use of technology, demonstrate the immense potential of rural innovation labs to drive economic and social development in developing countries.
