Sarvodaya-Fusion to empower underprivileged communities

Sarvodaya with Microsoft IT Academy and CISCO Networking Academy launched Fusion Education Academy to improve ICT literacy among rural youth.

"We are delighted to be a part of a strategic partnership with two of the global leaders in technology, CISCO and Microsoft. This partnership will enable the youth across the country to access world-class technology and know-how to broaden their opportunities in becoming active participants of the rapidly growing knowledge economy, Chairman, Sarvodaya-Fusion, Madu Ratnayake said.

Sarvodaya-Fusion aims at achieving sustainable development through the empowerment of underprivileged communities with ICT knowledge and skills. It will focus on youth in the rural areas with little or no access to formal computer education.

This education program offers recognized ICT courses delivered through a network of over 75 ICT centres such as Nenasala, Vidatha and smallscale entrepreneur-run ICT centres spread across rural areas in the country.

Youth in villages will now have the opportunity to access internationally recognized and specialized programs with more features and benefits while harnessing the latest technological skills and competencies. This collaboration will bring about a holistic education program embedded with the value system of Sarvodaya, its General Secretary Dr. Vinya Ariyaratne said.

The initial phase of the program will reach 1,000 children at grassroots level who are not yet exposed to information and communication technology with the 'Get Connected' course offered by the CISCO Networking Academy.