Google provides free space for public education

Islamabad : The Ministry of National Health Services has entered into a partnership with Google to to deliver critical information to Pakistanis on how to prevent and cope with the spread of COVID-19.

Google has provided free space worth $5 million for public education through all existing channels, including Search, Display and YouTube. The free space or ad credits are part of Google’s Ad Grants Programme and are anticipated to run from April until the end of the year.

Google is concentrating on three priorities that they believe are critical to a sustainable recovery: promoting accurate and reliable information; supporting education and learning; and contributing to business continuity and economic recovery.

In a statement, the Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Dr. Zafar Mirza lauded the assistance saying it will play a big role in helping the Pakistan government raise awareness on COVID-19 and highlighting how its citizens can protect themselves and prevent further spread of the virus.”

Google stated that, “COVID-19 puts intense demands on us all, and we’re determined to uphold our responsibility in this unprecedented time: to enable access to trusted information, support remote learning, back small businesses, and more. The initiatives we’ve shared today are the start. We’re standing with Pakistan to do all we can to help as we overcome COVID-19 and shape a stronger future.”

Speaking on Google’s assistance and partnership with WHO, the Representative of WHO in Pakistan Dr. Palitha Mahipala shared that, “In today’s age of misinformation, companies like Google can help get reliable information across to concerned citizens. This partnership will greatly support the COVID-19 response.”