NIIT inks pact with NComputing for ICT education in schools

New Delhi, Nov 6: Training and talent development firm NIIT today entered into a strategic alliance with US-based NComputing Inc to provide affordable computer education in schools.

''NIIT is committed to making education more impactful and interactive, by leveraging IT, and ensuring that the best tools and resources are made available to millions of school students. We are pleased to partner with NComputing to make available low-cost computing solutions for schools,'' NIIT's School Learning Solutions President L Balasubramanian told reporters here.

The alliance between NIIT and NComputing will help reduce the cost of computer education in schools by 50 per cent from current levels. The NComputing solutions will make computer education affordable for 'those who can afford computers and those who cannot', NComputing Chief Marketing Officer Raj Shah said.

NComputing solution consists of virtualization software that enables a single PC to be shared by many users. Each user's monitor, keyboard and mouse are connected to a NComputing access device, which is then connected to the shared PC. NComputing access devices and software can allow as many as 30 users to access the capability of one PC, thus bringing down the cost of infrastructure, installation and maintenance cost.

''NComputing is delighted to join forces with NIIT to bring truly affordable computing to K-12 schools throughout India,'' said Mr Shah adding, ''this alliance will leverage the strength and reach of NIIT's business in schools, with NComputing's proven virtual PC solutions.'' NIIT which also plays a major role in government's Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan, will now further help in reduction of purchase and support costs of installation of computers in schools. It has already deployed the solution in 20 schools across the country under the 'NIIT School Station' project.

UNI