Project Jyoti
Description
Community Technology Skills Program (‘Project Jyoti’) Project Jyoti launched in 2004, is the program where Microsoft partners with NGOs to support programs aimed at increasing digital inclusion and empowering the underserved individuals through Community Technology Learning Centre (CTLC).These are centers where individuals and communities come together to learn about computers, enhance their education and awareness, participate in community activities or develop technology skills. Till date, Microsoft has invested Rs. 47 crore (USD 10.5 million) in this program, spread across 20 states and Union Territories in India. Till date it has successfully supported 1,075 CTLCs and close to 200,000 individuals have been trained in IT skills in partnership with 14 NGOs.
What we deliver
Community Technology Learning Centre (CTLC) CTLCs are found in locations that range from remote villages to major metropolitan areas. They provide free or low-cost access for people of all ages and abilities to learn about computers, use the Internet, explore new careers, further their education, participate in community activities, and develop job-related technology skills. A typical CTLC features reliable and well-maintained computer equipment, peripherals, and connectivity. CTLCs offer an informal, welcoming environment in community centers, schools, libraries, housing facilities, or other convenient locations. They have strong leadership or a local champion and employ friendly, knowledgeable staff members or volunteers. CTLCs also are expected to demonstrate a clear mission or a focus on delivering social benefits, and each center’s curriculum is driven by local demand.
Whom we deliver
The training at the CTLCs is customized to the needs of the local communities. A wide range of beneficiaries have been impacted through IT skills training, including marginalized women, unemployed youth from urban slums, farmers, fishermen, other members of the village community, victims of human trafficking and communities vulnerable to trafficking, rural self-help groups, and rural kiosk entrepreneurs.
Why is the project unique?
CTLC is a unique initiative in itself that bring individuals and communities together and make the learning process more exciting and meaningful with the means of technology. They are set up in locations both like major metropolitan areas and remote villages to make sure the reach of technology is not only limited for the urban population.
Roadmap
Microsoft believes that by working with partners to create relevant training opportunities and innovative tools for people who are underserved by technology, we can help foster social and economic opportunities that change people’s lives and transform communities. The Microsoft Unlimited Potential–Community Technology Skills Program is a global effort that promotes workforce development and IT skills training programs in underserved communities. Microsoft provides cash grants, software, and specialized curriculum to nonprofit community technology centers (CTCs) around the world.
Contact
Gauri Arora
Microsoft Corporation (India) Private Limited
9th Floor, Tower A, DLF Cyber Greens DLF Cyber Citi, Sector 25A INDIA
Gurgaon, Haryana, India
122002
URL/Website – http://www.microsoft.com/india/msindia/msindia_ourmission_projectjyoti.aspx
