1. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Shashi Kant Shrivastava Senior Education Specialist, SASHD The World Bank

2. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Context: Rapid globalization of economy ICT leading to new work cultures Rapid shift from agriculture and manufacturing to service sector and knowledge based economy Need for high quality professionals Growing opportunities for women

3. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project India’s Strategy: Utilize S&T for development Become a superpower in IT through its very large educated youth Create employment opportunities for women and underprivileged Reduce regional imbalance Special attention to remote regions

4. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Challenges of Remote Regions:  Poor accessibility, little economic activity  Largely tribal population – many with their own distinct identity and culture  Vast natural resources untapped  High literacy but limited employment leading to youth frustration and conflicts  Women play leading role in some communities but remain poor

5. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Development Objective: Assist remote states (North East, J&K, and A& N Islands) to expand capacity and improve the quality and efficiency of technician education to meet specific needs of each state. Also increase access of women, scheduled tribes and rural youth to technician education and training.

6. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Strategy & Approach:  Establish new polytechnics  Modernize existing programs  Introduce new relevant programs  Focus on increased women participation  Promote linkage with employers and community  Provide housing facilities & training funds

7. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project New programs introduced: Information Technology Computer Science and Engineering Electronics and Telecommunication Medical Electronics Costume Design and Garment Technology Travel, Tourism and Hotel Management Herbal Remedies and Cosmetology Architectural Assistant & Interior Decoration

8. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Future of graduates:  Self employment  Employment in service sector  Employment in public sector  Employment in manufacturing  Employment in more developed states  Entry in to higher education

9. Engendering ICT India: Technician Education Project Other Related Projects in India: Technical/ Engineering Education Quality Improvement Project Technician Education Projects I & II (closed) Electronics Manpower Development Project (closed)