One Laptop Per child

I heard another report on the news today about the “One Laptop Per Child Program.” This report was about the sending of the XO computers to a group of school children in South Africa, which was a very positive thing. The report also talked about the problems the program is having. It is not keeping the cost down to below $100 and there is a failure rate to the computers, among other things.

I believe that it is important to remember what a large undertaking this project is. The goal is just what the program is titled, they want to get a laptop into the hands of every child in countries where students cannot afford a laptop. A plan this lofty is going to have problems. We must remember that problems can be worked out, and eventually will, but we should not look at this program as failing. It is far from failing.

I had the opportunity to speak with those in charge of the start up program in Rwanda. At the time they were field testing the XO in a rural school. Some of the computers were not working, but most were, and the students were using them. That is what is most important; computers in the hands of students who consider getting an education to be the most important opportunity of there young lives.

Modernizing education in third world countries is the most beneficial ideal for the world to embrace. Education is what will stop fighting and hunger. Education will bring us all to the same level and allow for mutual understanding. The XO computer is a way to modernize education and expand the opportunities for students who have very few opportunities.

So when you hear about the “One Laptop Per Child Program,” and they talk about the problems, remember, that those problems are minor compared to the benefits that this program is providing.

Andrew Williams