Computer literacy, the new buzzword at SMC

SURAT, MARCH 17: Computer literacy is the new buzz word in the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC). Taking a cue from its counterparts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, the SMC has decided to impart computer education to students of all the 248 civic schools in the city. The standing committee of SMC has earmarked Rs 30 crore in its budget for introducing computer education from the new academic session 1998-99.

Chairman of Municipal School Board Hitendra P Chudawala told The Indian Express that initially only class 7 students will be imparted computer education on an `experimental basis’. If it proves to be successful, it will be extended to primary school and budget allocation will also be suitably enhanced then to meet the additional requirements.

It was in view of the Gujarat Government decision to make computer education or typing an optional paper in SSC board examinations that the SMC decided to introduce computer education from the new academic session, the chairman pointed out.

The corporation, saidChudawala, will hire an agency to install computers and to impart computer education to students. The agency will be paid per student charge annually.