[UgaBYTES] NComputing, UN team to provide workstations in 60 countries

[Sandra Nassali]

NComputing has partnered with the United Nations Department of Economic and
Social Affairs (UNDESA) to provide 500,000 computers to primary and
secondary schools in 60 developing countries by 2012.

NComputing, a provider of ultra low-cost computing technology, developed the
program jointly with the UNDESA Global Alliance for ICT Development (GAID).

"Access to computing technology is a cornerstone for education, social, and
economic development in the 21st century," said Sarbuland Khan, executive
coordinator of UNDESA-GAID. "This initiative will play an important role in
closing the digital literacy gap that exists in the world's developing
nations."

The program will utilize NComputing Linux and Windows-based virtual
desktops. The NComputing virtual desktops are considered appropriate for
developing nations because they provide very low-cost computing; are simple
to ship and install; require minimal maintenance; and use only 1 watt of
electricity. NComputing will also provide its logistical and operational
expertise with large-scale roll-outs.

The partners have already completed the pilot phase in Burkina Faso and are
planning roll-outs in Rwanda, Senegal, and Tanzania in 2009.

"The NComputing virtual desktops gives us an important opportunity to
significantly expand computing access and simplify deployment," said Paul
Jhin, the project lead. "This maximizes the use of donated and refurbished
computers and simplifies deployment and power requirements, which are key
issues in many parts of the developing world."

In his address to participants at the eLearning conference in Dakar,
Senegal, Stephen Dukker, CEO and chairman of NComputing, said that bridging
the digital divide is a key mission for NComputing and that the initiative
will have an enormous impact on the lives of millions of children throughout
the world.

The project is expected to benefit 33 million students who will enjoy a full
PC experience by connecting their own monitor, keyboard, and mouse to an
NComputing access device, which is then connected to the shared PC. Because
only the shared PC requires ongoing service or upgrading, the project is
expected to save on maintenance costs.

http://computerworld.co.ke/articles/2009/05/29/ncomputing-un-team-provide-workstations-60-countries


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Sandra Nassali
Community Facilitator
UgaBYTES Initiative (www.ugabytes.org)
Telecentre.org  (www.telecentrecommunity.ning.com)
Plot 2218 Ggaba Road,
2nd Floor Kangave House
P.O. Box 6081 K'la
Email  snassali at ugabytes.org
chat    (skype)- n.sandra.
Tel      +256-414-370163