NIIT, Intel aim IT training in 80,000 schools

IT training firm NIIT on Monday said it has signed an agreement with computer chip maker Intel to enhance the use of technology-assisted learning in Indian schools.

"As per the memorandum of understanding, Intel and NIIT are aspiring to double the number of Indian schools benefiting from computer-assisted education to 80,000 by 2010," a NIIT release said.

The two companies have agreed to transform the quality of technology-assisted education in Indian schools to reach global levels of PC and Internet availability, it said.

The MoU outlines how Intel and NIIT will work together to integrate information and communications technology into schools, across all classes, from kindergarten to standard XII.

The two companies will also set up collaborative teams, with professionals from the IT industry, educationists and community members, to support the country's most challenging technology induction initiative in schools, it said.

"Together with NIIT we aim to infuse global best practices into India's education system and introduce technology-assisted learning in this country," Craig Barrett, CEO of Intel, said.

Intel and NIIT will also develop new technologies and education models to make technology-assisted learning more affordable and accessible.

The two companies will work with governments and education planners to define new ICT deployment models, device IT education standards and build replicable learning models.