How tech tools help people in South Asia learn new skills

During the current pandemic, community centers in South Asia were a critical source of assistance for poor women.

The Namma Mahiti Kendras gathered details about the new government and private programs created to help citizens cope with a national lockdown and the loss of salaries.

The women-run information centers knew what to do. They had several years’ experience helping marginalized women appropriate government entitlements and services. Executive director of IT for Change, Anita Gurumurthy, said that they were ready to take and run with the demands required for relief during the pandemic. It is a nonprofit group based in Bengaluru. Additionally, she added that they saw the ability of communities to self-organize.

A growing network of identical information centers helps women use digital technologies to receive various government services. It also gives them information. The centers offer video screenings, run community-based radio stations, and create podcasts. They hold debates on gender inequality and social injustice issues.

Gurumurthy also said that there is human potential in South Asia, and technology can turn potential into improvement.

Human development is essential as South Asia responds to climate change through health care, education, and other social services. Expanding the clean energy supply will require new jobs, skills, and inclusive training. Moreover, government programs operate more efficiently with data-driven decisions and updated social registries.

The correct use of technology will provide access and equity for the people who need it most. The benefits filter through vulnerable groups for the greater public good. Achieving this would be a challenge for South Asia, where technology policies have not favored vulnerable groups.

Technology as destiny in South Asia

Technology has assumed a decisive role in everyday life, like banking in the international economy. According to Gurumurthy, access to technology determines the destiny of people and communities. Technology can also reshape government services.