Intel and BSNL have unveiled a technology initiative in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state.

The project, a joint effort between Intel, BSNL and Itzcash, was formulated to help bridge the digital divide by increasing IT adoption in rural areas.

"The (project) is an excellent step in making technology more affordable and accessible to a much larger number of people in India," explained Sandeep Aurora, director of sales and marketing, Intel South Asia.  Aurora also noted that Intel was committed to accelerating broadband growth in India, as it viewed efficient connectivity as an "economic growth driver".

Intel has significantly increased its activity in the country over the past year. Indeed, the latest educational initiative follows an announcement by the company that it would work with the US State Department to provide training for Indian secondary school teachers.

Almuni who were active in previous programmes offered by the US State Department Educational and Cultural Affairs Bureau (ECA) will be invited to participate in "Intel Teach" programme activities by conducting online teaching courses and sharing curriculum items. The State Department and Intel are slated to further expand their collaboration in India by transforming education into a "foundation for economic and social development".

"We are delighted that Intel has joined us in a public-private partnership to support teacher and student IT training," Goli Ameri, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs told IT Examiner. "These partnerships with the private sector expand the positive work of the US State Department, and further the social responsibility objectives of corporations like Intel. We welcome Intel's commitment to use its expertise and resources to foster educational development. This is an opportunity to collaborate on groundbreaking projects that will open doors for educators and young people, as they develop critical skills to succeed in a high tech, 21st century classroom."

Paige Kuni, Intel Global K-12 Manager, expressed similiar sentiments to the IT Examiner. "Intel is pleased to collaborate with US Department of State for Education and Cultural Affairs in their 21st century education programs," said Kuni. "Intel believes that students everywhere deserve to have the tools needed to become the next generation of innovators. Helping teachers teach, students learn and universities around the world innovate, particularly in the areas of math, science and technology, are critical, and this partnership is a right step in that direction."  X

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