Finally,computer age catches up with typing institutes

On an average more than one lakh candidates across the state take the typing examination every year.

“Though we have special attachment with the old typing machines,we have to say goodbye to them to make way for emerging needs. Computers are the need of time,and we also have to adopt the change at the earliest. It will be also in best interest in our students,” said Kamlakar Mane,proprietor of Infotech Typing institute.

Prashant Yavatkar,proprietor of Sadhana Typing Institute said,the old typing machines would be recalled for their robustness and durability. “These machines had almost zero maintenance. They were fool proof too. Candidates shifting to computer-based typing after learning typing on these machines had smooth switch-over,” he said.

Since typewriting knowledge is a must for aspirants of many government jobs and considered to be an added advantage for those seeking private sector employment,the Maharashtra State Council of Examinations (MSCE) takes the examination of typewriting twice a year.

The machine,with four rows of letters to complete the English alphabets,a rolling pin on the top to roll in the paper and a handle to start a new line,was something no office could do without almost decade ago.

The Council,now onwards,will be offering basic course in computer typing in Marathi/English/Hindi for word per minute limit of 30 and 40. It has also introduced special skills in computer typing for instructor and students which ensures basic IT literacy for candidates.

“The computers are fast replacing traditional typing machines. The old machines are becoming obsolete with no more manufacturers in market. Also,the spare parts of these machines are not easily available in case of any repair. Moreover,the state government has adopted e-governance policy that asks for tech savvy staff to ensure paperless offices,” a senior MSCE official told Newsline.

The latest government resolution stated that new computer-based typing courses have been introduced on the lines of those started by Karnataka government in 2009.

The recognised institutes can run these courses by forwarding their proposals to respective offices of deputy director of education through local authorities. At least five computer terminals are a must for institute in urban areas,while those from rural areas will have to ensure a minimum of three terminals. Besides,these institutes would have to enure availability of scanner,printer,internet connection and power back-up. The online examination for these courses would be taken by MSCE twice a year.

“The new courses will be equivalent to existing courses taught on old typing machines. However,the existing courses would be no longer accepted after November 30,2015,” MSCE authorities said.