Intel chief''s three course menu for digital-led inclusive growth

NEW DELHI: Intel's chairman Craig Barrett has an agenda for achieving inclusive, quality growth in India: high-class educational training, idea generation for research and development and a conducive environment for setting up new companies. If the government provides these, Information Communications Technology (ICTs) can become a powerful multiplier for rapid inclusive growth.

Speaking at the Digital Leaders Forum organised by the confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in New Delhi, Barrett, said Intel, the world's largest manufacturer of computer chips, is chipping in to do its bit. "We will expand our Indian chapter of the Intel Learn Programme, a worldwide initiative to help classroom teachers learn how best to use technology to improve teaching and learning. We aim to train a million teachers by the end of 2008."

Nearly 600,000 teachers have been trained under this programme so far, he added.

Intel's World Ahead Programme drives digital inclusion in emerging countries, focusing on accessibility, connectivity, content and education.

"It is important to create opportunities for widespread ownership and shared access of personal computers through affordability, access and content, including the development of fully featured, affordable PCs tailored to local needs," Barrett said.

Expanding wireless broadband Internet access by cultivating the required ecosystems and encouraging deployment, including the broad promotion of WiMAX trials and deployment will further help improve in the area of Connectivity, he said.

Barrett said "The Government needs to prepare students for success in the global economy through education programmes and resources, including professional development for teachers worldwide."

Public-Private partnerships are vital for the future global leaders to progress, he said. "It is important to enable citizens and employees take advantage of the opportunities available for further growth of the country."

© CIOL Bureau