Coimbatore: The city corporation has decided to float tenders to replace outdated computers across all its schools at a cost of 1.2 crore. A detailed project report (DPR) for the same is pending approval.
A corporation education committee official said the replacement would include all electrical and wiring work in buildings that were established 20- 30 years back. "A DPR has been prepared which will be verified for the final tenders. However, there are possibilities for fluctuations in the quoted amount and the DPR could be revised. All of this is expected to be finalised by the end of December," he said.
K Ramesh, headmaster, Corporation SRP Ammaniammal girls hr sec school said, "Most of these computers are outdated and lack the latest configuration. These old systems are very slow. With many improvised technologies like AI emerging, educating students with an age-old version is untimely. Upgradation of systems is especially essential for Class XI and XII students who have opted for the computer science group." He also pointed out that many organisations have offered new computers as part of their CSR programmes. He further requested the corporation to focus on improvising lab infrastructure as part of the upgrading process.
Echoing similar views, Malathi, headmistress, Sidhapudur Girls High School said, "Computers are not just limited to one subject but include even other subjects like mathematics for instance. As a result of which even students from Classes VI to VIII require computers." She further pointed out that in most corporation schools, two to three students are forced to share one computer, hampering their exposure to technology and learning process.