Himalayan News Service

Rajbiraj, July 5:

Booming computer institutes in Rajbiraj are attracting youngsters from remote villages.

Sabita Rai of Khotang never dreamt of doing a diploma in computer technology. He said, “I finished my SLC and came down to terai where I was attracted to computers. I have been taking a course from Micro Computer Centre at Phattepur.” Similarly, Sushila Rai said that computers have helped her understand things easily. She said, “It is indeed rewarding to taste the computer craze. The more I learn, the more motivated I become to learn more.”

Tika Bahadur Thapa, secretary of Namuna VDC at Phattepur said that with the rise of good computer institutes in the district, many youths have become attracted to computers. He said, “I am also planning to provide computer training after getting trained myself from one of these institutes.”

Mahendra and Dinesh Rai, who have just finished a computer course, are preparing to open a computer institute themselves. Sabita and Sushila are two examples who have been facilitated by computer institutes. The educated women have busied themselves now with computer education as computer knowledge is a must for any job application as well. The Micro Computer Centre at Phattepur is currently training 90 people, with 45 of them being females. Trainer Surendra Chaudhary said that the four computers remain busy from 5 am to 7 pm. The centre is also providing 30 per cent discount on the basic course to women of poor families, said investor Devendra Karki.

The institute was established one and half years ago and youths and NGO staff have become attracted towards it. The institute has been funded by three people and they are planning to provide internet services too. Trainer Chaudhary said, “We have a high demand for internet and email services but due to technical reasons, we have not been able to provide it.” Though many computer institutes have opened in the district, only Micro and World Link Computer Institutes are running their trainings courses continuously. Both institutes provide a one-year diploma course and more women are inclined to take the training.