asha@yale.edu

Sending Computers To India

The Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA) has signed an agreement with World Computer Exchange (WCE) for the shipment of 400 computers for use at SEWA's nine district centers, the SEWA Academy, SEWA Vocational Training Institute and approximately 8-10 government schools. All sites are located in rural Gujarat. ASHA will assist SEWA and WCE in setting up computer centers at these sites. ASHA has commited six ASHA fellows for one year to aid with installation, training, and technical support. 

COLLABORATION BETWEEN SEWA AND ASHA

• WCE has signed an agreement with SEWA for it's first shipment of computers (400 computers, and monitors, Pentium I or better) to India.
• SEWA has received assurances from the Gujarat chief minister's office for clearance for this consignment. 
• The computers will be set up at the following locations:
        - 25 SEWA sites in 9 districts.
        -  8-10 government schools.
• SEWA is aiming to achieve the following objectives:-
       - Enhance communication between its members and various centers.
       - Create a database of information related to trade, healthcare, etc.
       - Impart computer education to the younger generation.
       - Make available graphics design capability for women designers.
       - Provide accounting and financial management for microenterprises.
• ASHA has committed to provide six fellows for a year for installation, technical support, and training. At present we are seeking support for four ASHA fellows ($200/month X 12 = $2400/fellow); funds for three fellows have been secured.
• Recruitment of fellows involves finding dedicated, competent, Gujarati-speaking individuals who are in tune with SEWA's goals and philosophy and are willing to spend one year working and habitating in rural parts of Gujarat.  fellows will be required to:
       -   Train individuals who can in turn train the general population of   SEWA  members.
       -   Monitor training of members and provide assistance when  necessary.
       -   Set up a management information system for SEWA.
• Fellows will be recruited with the help of ASHA-India and other relevant contacts in India.
• ASHA requires funds for additional accessories essential for use of the computers:
     -    40 High Capacity UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) units @ $500 each.
     -    400 Gujarati Software packages @ $50 each.
     -    50 printers @ $150 each.
• ASHA envisions that with experience gained from this undertaking, similar initiatives can be developed to provide computers to needy children in other parts of India as well.