Katha, Intel to launch Intel Computer Clubhouse in a New Delhi Slum Cluster

Katha, a non-profit organization working in the fields of education, literacy and literature, has joined hands with IT major Intel to open the first Intel Computer Clubhouse in the Asia Pacific region. The Intel Computer Clubhouse is an "invention workshop" for children living in Bhumiheen, Navjivan and Jawahar Camps in Govindpuri, New Delhi.

Katha has called for volunteers to teach and mentor the young participants in the program. According to Geeta Dharmarajan, Principal Team Leader and ED, Katha, "This is a wonderful opportunity for perceptive individuals from almost any profession to share their knowledge and skills, and use computers to help under resource children discover their abilities. Mentoring only requires an interest in learning and working with young people and/or providing technical support a few hours each week."

As a mentor, a volunteer acts as a guide to the children. He answers questions and supports the exploration and learning of Clubhouse members. Mentors help create Web pages, create animations, make videos, help conduct a Web search, compose music, and much more.

The Intel Computer Clubhouse at Katha is a community initiative, which attempts to revitalize one of the most populated areas in Delhi, the Govindpuri slum clusters. Katha has been working with this community since 1990, starting with five working children in their learning center. Housed in space donated for the initiative by the slum wing of MCD, Katha today has some 1,200 children in various programs. 

For Intel, the Intel Computer Clubhouse is a part of the worldwide Intel Community Development Program. The Clubhouse model is based on supporting learning through design experiences, helping youth build on their own interests, and creating an environment of respect and trust and it's objective is to broaden access to technology amongst under resourced population.

Cyber News Service