OKCL to promote e-learning

BHUBANESWAR: In a step forward on the road of e-learning, the Orissa Knowledge Corporation Ltd (OKCL) has initiated steps to create a network of learning centres through public-private partnership (PPP) mode.  The first meeting of OKCL Board of Directors under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary BK Patnaik here on Monday discussed the programmes chalked out by the corporation. The knowledge corporation has proposed to launch a programme for universalisation of information technology (IT) literacy among all sections of society including students, professionals, businessmen, women, senior citizens and Government employees.Information technology training programme for primary, secondary and higher secondary teachers and another digital ‘Saheli’ programme for empowering women have been proposed by the corporation. The corporation also plans to create a network of 2,000 authorised learning centres (ALC) on PPP mode in all parts of the State for universal accessibility to information technology at low cost. These centres will be equipped with state-of-art hardware, software and e-learning contents. The proposed network will offer learning opportunities in urban, semi-urban, rural and hilly areas of the State. Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation will provide technical assistance to Orissa. Managing Director of Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Vivek Sawant made a presentation on the proposed e-learning and e-empowerment programmes in a separate meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary.  The proposal for innovative learning material for primary schools, creation of Odisha Knowledge Cloud for interlinking computers of various centres of learning, assessment and talent nurturing of students and IT-based skill development programmes for empowering rural women were discussed.  BK Patnaik advised secretaries of respective departments to have a look into the programmes relating to their departments and assess means and ways for their applicability.  Development Commissioner RN Senapati,  Revenue and Disaster Management Secretary RK Sharma, School and Mass Education Secretary Aparajita Sarangi, Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste Development Secretary Santosh Sarangi,  Higher Education Secretary CS Kumar, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Secretary M Padhee participated in the discussions.