Through its global software donation programme, Microsoft is supporting the Mobile School project implemented by the Dariu Foundation in Vietnam.
The Swiss private foundation aims to provide computer skills training for underprivileged children in rural communities with the launch of its Mobile School project. Each training course lasts for a period of three months, and will train students in the use of Windows® and Microsoft® Office software, as well as other basic computer and Internet access skills.
In 2012, Microsoft donated 50 key licenses of Window 7 and Office 2010 worth US$50,000 to the Dariu Foundation for the installation of laptops at the Mobile Schools. To date, Dariu Foundation has four mobile schools, capable of training a total of 4,000 students a year. Each of the mobile schools will be relocated to a new area once the students complete the course. The project scope will be further expanded in 2013, raising the annual training capacity to 6,000 students by 2014.
“At Microsoft, we are committed to making technology more accessible to nonprofit organisations, enabling them to better help the local communities they serve. We recognise the work of the Dariu Foundation in improving education opportunities for young people in the rural areas of Vietnam, and we are honoured to support their efforts by donating software to support the Mobile Schools project,” said Vu Minh Tri, Country Manager, Microsoft Vietnam.
Nguyen Thi Ngoc Thuy, from Vinh Long province, is one of the youth who benefited from the training provided at the Mobile Schools.
Ms Thuy has long aspired to become a computer technician, but she was not able to afford the expenses of a computer training course. To pursue her dreams, Ms Thuy decided to enrol herself at the Mobile School in her village. Ms Thuy completed the course in August 2012, and was also awarded by the Dariu Foundation for being one of the top students in her cohort.
“Before enrolling in the Mobile School course, I would never have imagined how useful computers could be. I have managed to pick up practical computer skills, and I look forward to learning more in the advanced course next year, when the Mobile School returns to my village,” Ms Thuy said.