Delhi govt to set up free computer labs in 100 schools

In a significant push towards bridging the digital divide in education, the Delhi government has identified 100 government schools where computer labs will be set up free of cost.

The initiative is being implemented under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 28 March between the Directorate of Education and the Ladli Foundation Trust, a registered non-profit organisation. The partnership aims to enhance digital education and improve access to technology for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Following a comprehensive assessment, the selected schools were identified based on feasibility surveys conducted by representatives of the Ladli Foundation.

As per the agreement, the Directorate of Education will provide essential infrastructure support, including classrooms, electricity, lighting, fans, furniture, and power backup. Each school will also appoint a teacher or coordinator to oversee the operation and maintenance of the labs, ensuring their long-term sustainability.

The Ladli Foundation Trust will equip each lab with 20 computers, take responsibility for hardware and software maintenance, and carry out regular monitoring and evaluation. In addition, the organisation will offer free mock tests for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) to up to one lakh students, and organise skill-building sessions and workshops through its partners.

To coordinate the project’s rollout, a video conference was held on 28 April, chaired by the Additional Director of Education (IT). District and zonal deputy directors of education, along with heads of schools, participated in the meeting, where they were briefed on their roles and responsibilities.

Heads of schools have been directed to ensure that the required infrastructure is in place and to use existing school funds if necessary, following official guidelines. They are also required to submit progress reports every fortnight to track the implementation.

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This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and supports the broader objectives of the Digital India and Skill India missions. By providing hands-on training in digital technology, the programme seeks to improve students’ career readiness in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Earlier this year, during the budget session in March, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced an allocation of Rs 50 crore for the establishment of 175 new computer labs and smart classrooms, underlining the government’s commitment to modernising education infrastructure in the capital.

(With inputs from PTI)