LUMS IIS to Discuss What can We Learn from Ali Gul Pir
September 12, 2012
A lecture on New Media: Case Study Ali Gul Pir titled, "What can we learn from Ali Gul Pir?" organised by LUMS Initiative on Internet and Society (IIS) - to explore, understand and comprehend the power of cyberspace in Pakistan.
Speaker: William Fitzgerald
Date: Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Time: 7:00pm to 8:00pm
Venue: A-12, Academic Block
Abstract
In 2011, Ali Gul Pir approached TV stations and media channels asking could he record a music video about the feudal lords in their studios. He was turned away at every corner so he decided to do it himself. Using his film and comic skills, with a tiny budget he created a music video that instantly went viral. It’s a satirical rap about his life called “Waderai Ka Beta”. Today, more music, movies, videos and books are published than ever before. With access to an open internet, Pakistani's have a platform that allows innovation without permission. How can policymakers in Pakistan help more creators harness the power of the Internet? More businesses grow online? More students break down the barriers to quality education? William Fitzgerald, for Google's from Google's Government Affairs team, will discuss the open Internet from Google's perspective and why it's important for Pakistan.
About the Speaker
William Fitzgerald is a Senior Policy Analyst in Google’s Public Policy and Government Affairs team in Asia Pacific. He has a regional role but specifically focuses on Google’s relationship with Governments in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal. Fitzgerald previously served on the board of Directors for the Asia Internet Coalition. Before joining Google, William worked in West Bengal, India for the Non-Government Organization, Suas, with partner organization, Sabuj Sangha.
