Microsoft

Earlier this semester we spoke of the technological gap that was hindering some countries from competing on a global level. Africa is drastically behind in technology, but it is slowly improving.

Last week, the USA Today featured an article about Microsoft. Microsoft will now offer a $3 software package to governments that wish to subsidize student computers. They are also going to open 90 more “innovation centers” around the world where their employees will offer classes about technology to small startup businesses attempting to compete in a global world. Hopefully some of the aid Microsoft is supplying will find its way to Africa. They are in desperate need of more help. Last, Microsoft is designing a website targeting engineering graduates in India. They are going to try to expose new graduates to opportunities that will make them more marketable to other employers. The website has not launched yet.

Are Microsoft’s intentions truly altruistic? I am not sure, but I do not think their efforts can hinder the technological gap amongst some nations. Hopefully children in all schools, including the United States, will soon have access to current technology. Maybe then we will be producing the engineers Microsoft seeks to further train for the global market. If nothing else, this is good PR for Microsoft. In time we will be able to see if their efforts are making a difference.

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2007-04-19-gates-china_N.htm?POE=click-refer