Media Literacy, as we all know, is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate and create media in various forms. It is about being critical thinkers and responsible consumers of information. Project Jagaran has been at the forefront of promoting media literacy and raising awareness about its importance.
As a team lead of the project, I had the incredible opportunity to work with eight talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.The success of any project lies in the strength of its team.I was fortunate to bring together individuals from different backgrounds, each with their own unique talents. Their diverse perspectives and skills became the backbone of Project Jagaran, driving us towards success.
From the very start, I was entrusted with the responsibility of managing the project’s finances. This involved overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and analyzing financial data. I ensured compliance with regulations and made strategic financial decisions that guided the team towards our goals. From allocating funds to tracking expenses, I not only managed the numbers but also provided guidance to the team.
We embarked on a mission to spread media literacy in Biratnagar. As we ventured into Biratnagar, we were surprised to discover that many people had limited knowledge of media literacy. The terms “misinformation” and “disinformation” were often used interchangeably, leading to confusion and a lack of critical thinking when consuming news and information. Hence, with a passion for research and increased awareness, our team took it upon ourselves to fill this knowledge gap. We conducted sessions and workshops, engaging students from colleges and the American Corner, as well as connecting with locals from Dharan and Koshi. Through interactive discussions and activities, we aimed to equip them with the tools needed to navigate the complex media landscape. Similarly, we did not limit the project to Biratnagar as we wanted to expand and empower citizens nationwide. Our second step was the journey to Birgunj where our efforts went beyond just educating individuals. We aimed to empower communities to become more media literate and discerning consumers of information. By providing training and workshops, we encourage active engagement, fact-checking and critical analysis of information found online. Our expectations exceeded when the students showcased their understanding in various creative forms including drama and poetry.
It was undoubtedly a transformative experience, filled with eye-opening moments and impactful interactions. By promoting media literacy and addressing the misconceptions surrounding misinformation and disinformation, we took a step towards empowering individuals and communities. With the aim of spreading awareness and making a difference, we do not conclude here. We will certainly make this project sustainable and make an impact in the lives of people, especially targeting marginalized and backward communities.