50 Computer Labs, One Mission: Farrukh Foundation’s Vision to Elevate Global Literacy

Written and edited by Kelly Cervantes

In an effort to close the digital divide the Farrukh Foundation launched Equip Her Ambition, a program that establishes computer labs for orphan girls in Pakistan. These computer labs aim to transform the lives of these girls, and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in STEM academics and careers. 

Current research shows that in Pakistan, children as they age, are less likely to continue schooling. In addition, there is a gender gap, boys are more likely to attend school. This could be due to a variety of factors such as economic factors and cultural barriers, however a notable factor is the instability of public schooling. In Pakistan, public school is free. However, schools have insufficient resources, such as portable water, stable infrastructure, and running electricity to keep the schools open. 

Now in the post pandemic era, girls are facing an additional problem, schools are becoming more and more dependent on the internet and technology. As this change continues to rise, Pakistani families that live in rural areas are unable to send their children to school due to the lack of technology and internet access these schools have. Not only do children face the impact of lack of technology. Educators do too. Educators have noted that they felt the lack of internet and burnout has hindered their ability to create lesson plans that can successfully prepare students for higher education. To tackle this growing challenge, the Farrukh Foundation launched an initiative aimed at bridging the digital divide.

The Farrukh Foundation was created by siblings Humzah, Qasim, Umiemah, and Omar. After graduating from UCLA, they were determined to ensure that everyone has access to education. As a result, the foundation has had a unique way of addressing educational inequality. One of these initiatives is Equip Her Ambition; a program that helps orphan girls get education through computer labs and AI guided course lessons. 

Thanks to Western Union and Watson Institute, Farrukh Foundation was able to establish a computer lab in Gujranwala, Pakistan. This lab, located in Roshni Homes, has 6 computers and uses AI software to help with lesson planning. The goal of using AI is to also assist educators too. 

While the computer lab has a short time running, its impacts have already been felt. Aima Batoot, a young participant of the program, says, “I love learning new things on the computer. Now, I can practice coding, explore science projects, and even work on my school assignments in a fun way. My favorite part is learning how to keep files safe, just like in our computer project.” As for educators, they have noted that AI has helped them think of innovative ways for lesson planning. Teachers can now focus on guiding young girls toward STEM fields and higher education.

This computer lab is the first of many. The Farrukh Foundations hopes to establish at least 50 computer labs globally. With these computer labs, they hope to impact the lives of at least 10,000 young orphan girls. 

If you are interested in volunteering for the Farrukh Foundation or would like to make a donation, please visit www.farrukhfoundation.org.