National digital repository for schools launched

The National Repository of Open Education Resources, prepared by NCERT, is a digital resource of collection of documents, audio-visuals, interactive objects etc which are mapped to the concepts, enabling access to a library from which teachers can choose appropriate resource

HRD Minister M M Pallam Raju launched an initiative to bring together digital resources for various subjects in different languages in schools in New Delhi on Tuesday. The National Repository of Open Education Resources, prepared by NCERT, is a digital resource of collection of documents, audio-visuals, interactive objects etc which are mapped to the concepts, thus enabling access to a library from which teachers can choose appropriate resource.

The Minister also launched an ICT curriculum for the schools and said once the initiatives are rolled out; the curriculum would help train teachers on a large scale to benefit from ICT. "The task of continuous professional development of teachers and on-site support to teaching and learning processes can then be met effectively. The collaborative nature of the repository also provides a great opportunity for teachers to participate in the process.

"The chance of experimenting and showcase one's own creation is a very satisfying one and will give the teachers the much-needed confidence that they can also create," he said at a function while launching the initiatives. He said the ICT scheme of the government and the provisions in the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan have supported the developments of ICT infrastructure and connectivity in schools.

But, he acknowledged, the coverage is "not adequate" due to challenges like basic infrastructure and choice of hardware and software appropriate to the school system. Raju said the new initiative has been launched "has the potential to significantly contribute and impact the school education in the country".