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- information science, ICTs, rural informatics, Social Sciences, Sustainable Development, Library Science, Information Science, Rural Development, and 44 moreLibrary and Information Science, Information Literacy, ICT4D, Sustainable Communities, Social Impact Assessment, Telecentres, Education, Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Communication, Business, Gender Studies, Media Studies, Social Media, Gender, Human Rights, New Media, Political Economy, Africa, Social Networking, Web 2.0, Development communication, Governance, Computer-Mediated Communication, ICT for Development, Internet Governance, Research Methodology, International Relations, Development Studies, Sri Lanka, Public Services, Digital Technologies, Philosophy, Anthropology, E-learning, Informatics, India, OneWorld South Asia, Knowledge Management, Public Administration, International Development, Malaysia, and Environmental Sustainabilityedit
- Director:CEMCA at the Commonwealth of Learningedit
The eight year long story of nenasalas (telecentres) in Sri Lanka.
Research Interests:
What can ICT bring for the inhabitants of 600,000 Indian villages? How India is empowering the poor and marginalised citizens to participate in the emerging knowledge society? How will India provide voice to her millions of citizens?... more
What can ICT bring for the inhabitants of 600,000 Indian villages? How India
is empowering the poor and marginalised citizens to participate in the emerging knowledge society? How will India provide voice to her millions of citizens? ‘Taking ICT to every Indian village: Opportunities and challenges”, attempts at answering such questions and exploring the complex interactions between ICT and society. For the first time, a conscious effort has been made to bridge the gaps existing between research and practice – a matrix of development verticals, founded upon the principles of human development approach, tests and validates the planning, implementation and evaluation of ICT projects. An insightful analysis of rural India portrays the complexities of social, political and economic environment in which institutions and initiatives function and operate. Argumentative, analytical and thoughtful – the collection raises many questions for practitioners, policy makers, planners and researchers on the emerging ICTD paradigm in India. A whole new direction has emerged through this discourse – making government, private sector and civil society leaders think on the social, economic and cultural consequences of taking ICTs to Indian villages.
is empowering the poor and marginalised citizens to participate in the emerging knowledge society? How will India provide voice to her millions of citizens? ‘Taking ICT to every Indian village: Opportunities and challenges”, attempts at answering such questions and exploring the complex interactions between ICT and society. For the first time, a conscious effort has been made to bridge the gaps existing between research and practice – a matrix of development verticals, founded upon the principles of human development approach, tests and validates the planning, implementation and evaluation of ICT projects. An insightful analysis of rural India portrays the complexities of social, political and economic environment in which institutions and initiatives function and operate. Argumentative, analytical and thoughtful – the collection raises many questions for practitioners, policy makers, planners and researchers on the emerging ICTD paradigm in India. A whole new direction has emerged through this discourse – making government, private sector and civil society leaders think on the social, economic and cultural consequences of taking ICTs to Indian villages.
Research Interests:
""“Mission 2007: every village a knowledge centre by 15 August 2007 is a gift to the nation by the citizens of India!” announced Professor M. S. Swaminathan at the formal launch of the Mission in July 2004. A very ambitious program... more
""“Mission 2007: every village a knowledge centre by 15 August 2007 is a gift to the nation by the citizens of India!” announced Professor M. S. Swaminathan at the formal launch of the Mission in July 2004. A very ambitious program launched; targets set; deadlines determined; and the purpose defined!
In February 2004, during my 30 hour long train journey to Delhi from Chennai after attending a meeting at MSSRF where I was nominated as the Secretary of Mission 2007, many things occupied my mind. In less than 40 months, India would require USD 5billion to spend on rural ICT infrastructure and the back-bone support systems; there would be the need to train some 500,000 individuals, who would staff telecentres, and these people need to emerge from within the village communities; there would be the need for developing and digitising appropriate and value added content and services aimed at 115 million farm families; rural India would require over 250,000 public spaces that offer access to ‘all’; reliable and affordable rural broadband that will carry pro-poor services in response to the demand expressed by the rural populace; and, above all, there should be ownership among the community members to lead this movement. This would need enormous coordination among all those, who could contribute to the movement""
In February 2004, during my 30 hour long train journey to Delhi from Chennai after attending a meeting at MSSRF where I was nominated as the Secretary of Mission 2007, many things occupied my mind. In less than 40 months, India would require USD 5billion to spend on rural ICT infrastructure and the back-bone support systems; there would be the need to train some 500,000 individuals, who would staff telecentres, and these people need to emerge from within the village communities; there would be the need for developing and digitising appropriate and value added content and services aimed at 115 million farm families; rural India would require over 250,000 public spaces that offer access to ‘all’; reliable and affordable rural broadband that will carry pro-poor services in response to the demand expressed by the rural populace; and, above all, there should be ownership among the community members to lead this movement. This would need enormous coordination among all those, who could contribute to the movement""
Research Interests:
Corruption prevailed throughout the ages so also the strategies to contain. However, late last century marked the beginning of a new era in which actors have started to discuss the impact of corruption, thanks to efforts by some global... more
Corruption prevailed throughout the ages so also the strategies to contain. However, late last century marked the beginning of a new era in which actors have started to discuss the impact of
corruption, thanks to efforts by some global institutions, such as the World Bank, Transparency International, the Open Society Institute and the UNDP. Attempts to highlight the problems
associated with corruption and bribing have not only brought the issue on the global agenda, but have witnessed some path-breaking solutions. Of late, thanks to the efforts of the UN
organizations, the ill effects of corruption are discussed in the light of human development, and the freedom and choices offered to individuals and their capacity to enjoy these. No doubt
corruption cripples everyone, but more so, the least served and the most marginalized in societies within the developing nations. The advent of Information and Communication Technologies do provide an opportunity to prevail over corrupt practices, but the main challenge is the willpower of the governments to take advantage of this unique opportunity, rather than missing it. The paper examines the intrinsic relationship between corruption and human development while presenting an overview of the role of ICTs, especially e-governance as means to improve human conditions and prevent corrupt practices. More than 100 such e-governance efforts enlisted in this paper highlight best practices at both small as well as large scales, sometimes also at a pan-national level. The paper suggests that the hype around ICTs,
especially about their role in containing corruption does need some serious thinking and a joint effort by the government departments that intend to introduce e-governance with a view to
reducing corruption. The author concludes with a simple but doable five point agenda for successful implementation of e-governance programs that can provide a good foundation for a
long-term public-private partnership program that places the common people at the helms of anticorruption efforts.
corruption, thanks to efforts by some global institutions, such as the World Bank, Transparency International, the Open Society Institute and the UNDP. Attempts to highlight the problems
associated with corruption and bribing have not only brought the issue on the global agenda, but have witnessed some path-breaking solutions. Of late, thanks to the efforts of the UN
organizations, the ill effects of corruption are discussed in the light of human development, and the freedom and choices offered to individuals and their capacity to enjoy these. No doubt
corruption cripples everyone, but more so, the least served and the most marginalized in societies within the developing nations. The advent of Information and Communication Technologies do provide an opportunity to prevail over corrupt practices, but the main challenge is the willpower of the governments to take advantage of this unique opportunity, rather than missing it. The paper examines the intrinsic relationship between corruption and human development while presenting an overview of the role of ICTs, especially e-governance as means to improve human conditions and prevent corrupt practices. More than 100 such e-governance efforts enlisted in this paper highlight best practices at both small as well as large scales, sometimes also at a pan-national level. The paper suggests that the hype around ICTs,
especially about their role in containing corruption does need some serious thinking and a joint effort by the government departments that intend to introduce e-governance with a view to
reducing corruption. The author concludes with a simple but doable five point agenda for successful implementation of e-governance programs that can provide a good foundation for a
long-term public-private partnership program that places the common people at the helms of anticorruption efforts.
Research Interests:
"This paper presents a case for a multi-stakeholder approach to policy influence for promoting inclusive growth in India by citing the example of the National Alliance for Mission 2007: Every village a knowledge centre or the Mission... more
"This paper presents a case for a multi-stakeholder approach to policy
influence for promoting inclusive growth in India by citing the example of
the National Alliance for Mission 2007: Every village a knowledge centre or
the Mission 2007, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO) led movement . This
movement aimed to facilitate the establishment of telecentre or Village
Knowledge Centre (VKC) in each and every village of India. VKCs are public
telecentres where people from local communities can use Information
Communication Technologies (ICTs), such as computers, and access the
internet to seek information and accumulate knowledge without being
discriminated against.
It builds the argument around scaling up the telecentres on the premise
that uninhibited access to knowledge is critical for holistic community
development. Knowledge is accessible through older media such as print,
radio and television as well as the more recently-emerging technologies.
Technology has tremendous potential to overcome the barriers of time
and space; its denial to some sectors of society has further widened the
existing divide between the poor and the rich."
influence for promoting inclusive growth in India by citing the example of
the National Alliance for Mission 2007: Every village a knowledge centre or
the Mission 2007, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO) led movement . This
movement aimed to facilitate the establishment of telecentre or Village
Knowledge Centre (VKC) in each and every village of India. VKCs are public
telecentres where people from local communities can use Information
Communication Technologies (ICTs), such as computers, and access the
internet to seek information and accumulate knowledge without being
discriminated against.
It builds the argument around scaling up the telecentres on the premise
that uninhibited access to knowledge is critical for holistic community
development. Knowledge is accessible through older media such as print,
radio and television as well as the more recently-emerging technologies.
Technology has tremendous potential to overcome the barriers of time
and space; its denial to some sectors of society has further widened the
existing divide between the poor and the rich."
Research Interests:
"Libraries across all societies have existed and continue to evolve within a complex and dynamic knowledge system that encompasses the lifecycle of information and knowledge from creation, through dissemination and curation to use. They... more
"Libraries across all societies have existed and continue to evolve within a complex and dynamic knowledge system that encompasses the lifecycle of information and knowledge from creation, through dissemination and curation
to use. They have shaped activities that we have historically called scholarly communication and the dissemi nation and use of cultural materials. Cultural needs and requirements provide an essential foundation for the dynamic information system, of which libraries have always been an integral part. Libraries have broadly strived to provide effi cient linkages between knowledge and infor mation systems. They have demonstrated the potential for enabling transformation of sorts - from social, cultural, political and even economic."
to use. They have shaped activities that we have historically called scholarly communication and the dissemi nation and use of cultural materials. Cultural needs and requirements provide an essential foundation for the dynamic information system, of which libraries have always been an integral part. Libraries have broadly strived to provide effi cient linkages between knowledge and infor mation systems. They have demonstrated the potential for enabling transformation of sorts - from social, cultural, political and even economic."
Research Interests:
"This paper presents a case for a multi-stakeholder approach to policy influence for promoting inclusive growth in India by citing the example of the National Alliance for Mission 2007: Every village a knowledge centre or the Mission... more
"This paper presents a case for a multi-stakeholder approach to policy
influence for promoting inclusive growth in India by citing the example of
the National Alliance for Mission 2007: Every village a knowledge centre or
the Mission 2007, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO) led movement . This
movement aimed to facilitate the establishment of telecentre or Village
Knowledge Centre (VKC) in each and every village of India. VKCs are public
telecentres where people from local communities can use Information
Communication Technologies (ICTs), such as computers, and access the
internet to seek information and accumulate knowledge without being
discriminated against.
It builds the argument around scaling up the telecentres on the premise
that uninhibited access to knowledge is critical for holistic community
development. Knowledge is accessible through older media such as print,
radio and television as well as the more recently-emerging technologies.
Technology has tremendous potential to overcome the barriers of time
and space; its denial to some sectors of society has further widened the
existing divide between the poor and the rich."
influence for promoting inclusive growth in India by citing the example of
the National Alliance for Mission 2007: Every village a knowledge centre or
the Mission 2007, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO) led movement . This
movement aimed to facilitate the establishment of telecentre or Village
Knowledge Centre (VKC) in each and every village of India. VKCs are public
telecentres where people from local communities can use Information
Communication Technologies (ICTs), such as computers, and access the
internet to seek information and accumulate knowledge without being
discriminated against.
It builds the argument around scaling up the telecentres on the premise
that uninhibited access to knowledge is critical for holistic community
development. Knowledge is accessible through older media such as print,
radio and television as well as the more recently-emerging technologies.
Technology has tremendous potential to overcome the barriers of time
and space; its denial to some sectors of society has further widened the
existing divide between the poor and the rich."
Research Interests:
Digital Dominance: The Power of Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Apple, edited by Moore and Tambini, is an attempt to decipher these tech giants’ digital effects on society, the economy and politics, as well as to explore if and how these... more
Digital Dominance: The Power of Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Apple, edited by Moore
and Tambini, is an attempt to decipher these tech giants’ digital effects on society, the
economy and politics, as well as to explore if and how these dominant players influence
these arenas. In addition to exploring if and how digital technologies have come to serve
and/or dominate human lives, the book also explains the Google, Amazon, Facebook, Apple
and Microsoft (GAFA-M) factor in this struggle. The GAFA-M as the five largest digital
companies, are here to stay and will continue to impact humanity and the lives of individuals.
The authors in this edited collection attempt to answer the prime question posed in the
book, “Will the market end the tech giants’ digital dominance?”
and Tambini, is an attempt to decipher these tech giants’ digital effects on society, the
economy and politics, as well as to explore if and how these dominant players influence
these arenas. In addition to exploring if and how digital technologies have come to serve
and/or dominate human lives, the book also explains the Google, Amazon, Facebook, Apple
and Microsoft (GAFA-M) factor in this struggle. The GAFA-M as the five largest digital
companies, are here to stay and will continue to impact humanity and the lives of individuals.
The authors in this edited collection attempt to answer the prime question posed in the
book, “Will the market end the tech giants’ digital dominance?”
Research Interests:
Scientometrics, ever since it came into existence as a field of study, has given new dimensions to the two main scientific principles – Objectivity and Reproducibility. With modern techniques at hand, it has now become possible for us to... more
Scientometrics, ever since it came into existence as a field of study, has given new dimensions to the two main scientific principles – Objectivity and Reproducibility. With modern techniques at hand, it has now become possible for us to measure the impact of scientific outputs and the outcomes. Perhaps, librarians and information scientists, have been the first ones to recognise the importance of big data when they started analysing the impact of science, understanding citations and production indicators,
and the implications and the ultimate purpose of science. Thanks to Eugene Garfield, Derek J de Solla Price and the thousands of information scientists such as the ones that have authored papers in this publication, Scientometric results have had an influence on the way scientific literature and other outputs have been further harnessed by mankind in recent years, due to which materials such as science citation index, current contents and other citation databases became treasured possessions in libraries.
and the implications and the ultimate purpose of science. Thanks to Eugene Garfield, Derek J de Solla Price and the thousands of information scientists such as the ones that have authored papers in this publication, Scientometric results have had an influence on the way scientific literature and other outputs have been further harnessed by mankind in recent years, due to which materials such as science citation index, current contents and other citation databases became treasured possessions in libraries.
Research Interests:
This 46 minute film highlights the role played by nenasalas in improving livelihood options for the Sri Lankan populace. Has good case studies; portrays award winning projects and discusses the role of Buddhist temples in development.... more
This 46 minute film highlights the role played by nenasalas in improving livelihood options for the Sri Lankan populace. Has good case studies; portrays award winning projects and discusses the role of Buddhist temples in development.
Includes statements by Gavashkar Subramanium, Dil Piyarathne, Reshan Dewapura, Professor W Epasinghe
Testimonials of telecentre operators - Bimal Prasad, Udesh Malikaratne, Srikanthan and Nilaweera
Includes statements by Gavashkar Subramanium, Dil Piyarathne, Reshan Dewapura, Professor W Epasinghe
Testimonials of telecentre operators - Bimal Prasad, Udesh Malikaratne, Srikanthan and Nilaweera
Research Interests:
The telecentre women campaign aimed to bring digital skills to over 1 million women worldwide, and was launched at the 3rd global meet of telecentre networks in Chile, together with the International Telecommunications Union. The... more
The telecentre women campaign aimed to bring digital skills to over 1 million women worldwide, and was launched at the 3rd global meet of telecentre networks in Chile, together with the International Telecommunications Union. The campaign did achieve its feat within three years of the launch of campaign
Research Interests:
The author opines that Ranganathan's Five Laws pronounced in 1931 are of eternal relevance and can be considered as the sutras of Knowledge Management. Earlier majority of population were prevented from accessing knwoledge. The... more
The author opines that Ranganathan's Five Laws pronounced in 1931 are of eternal relevance and can be considered as the sutras of Knowledge Management. Earlier majority of population were prevented from accessing knwoledge. The revolutionary laws he proposed, democratised access to knowledge. Tim Berners-Lee followed Ranganathan's footsteps by making WWW accessible to everyone. But he went one more step ahead by ensuring participation of common people in creating knowledge also. The author opines that the present ideas of Open data (information), Open Government (politics), Open Access (scientific research), Free culture (education and culture) from which the entire society is able to benefit is what Ranganathan envisioned in his five Laws which are based on his principles of non-discrimination. The author also adapts the five laws to suit the knoweldge based society.
Research Interests:
The prime agenda of setting up telecentres across the world is not only taking information, communication and technology (ICT) to the deprived and under-served; but also ensuring its actual appropriation by them to access value added... more
The prime agenda of setting up telecentres across the world is not only taking information, communication and technology (ICT) to the deprived and under-served; but also ensuring its actual appropriation by them to access value added information, knowledge, and services and to use the same for their overall advancement.Initially revolving around the idea of enhancing rural community’s access to computers, Internet, and other basic ICT facilities, the scope and scale of telecentre activities have increased manifold over the years. But, in spite of this, sustainability has been a central concern in the telecentre domain throughout the world, especially after their appearance in developing countries.
Research Interests:
Despite considerable investment, public services in most developing countries are widely perceived to be unsatisfactory and deteriorating. The poor and disadvantaged in developing countries suffer in relation to delivery of public... more
Despite considerable investment, public services in most developing countries are widely perceived to be unsatisfactory and deteriorating. The poor and disadvantaged in developing countries suffer in relation to delivery of public services. First, they lack access to those services due to physical, financial, informational, political and other barriers. Second, they lack effective mechanisms for feeding back their complaints, views and requests in relation to those services. As a result, public services to the poor lack transparency, accountability and quality. The poor and the disadvantaged are particularly vulnerable as they rely completely on the state for accessing critical services such as drinking water, health and education.
Our case studies in Nigeria among the Nigerian National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) and the Nigerian Telecommunications PLC (NITEL) are indicative of the fact that the public service provision is deteriorating from bad to worse. And, there is no public grievance redressal system in place. The NEPA and NITEL case studies are typical of public service provision and the lack of a redressal system in most developing countries today.
e-Government solutions are introduced in public service processes such as the above with little or no participation by the recipients of services. Challenging the above approach, Transparency International is undertaking a research programme in four countries to understand the potentials of ICTs in public service delivery among the poor and the vulnerable.. The paper argues for a strong access to information component in public service provision and the need to address the inadequate state of grievance redress and feedback mechanisms on services to poor women and men by applying the ICTs.
Our case studies in Nigeria among the Nigerian National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) and the Nigerian Telecommunications PLC (NITEL) are indicative of the fact that the public service provision is deteriorating from bad to worse. And, there is no public grievance redressal system in place. The NEPA and NITEL case studies are typical of public service provision and the lack of a redressal system in most developing countries today.
e-Government solutions are introduced in public service processes such as the above with little or no participation by the recipients of services. Challenging the above approach, Transparency International is undertaking a research programme in four countries to understand the potentials of ICTs in public service delivery among the poor and the vulnerable.. The paper argues for a strong access to information component in public service provision and the need to address the inadequate state of grievance redress and feedback mechanisms on services to poor women and men by applying the ICTs.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
This brief A4AI case study examines the current state of Internet affordability in Myanmar and assesses: the current state of ICT use; the development of the country’s policy and regulatory environment; key challenges to improved access;... more
This brief A4AI case study examines the current state of Internet affordability in Myanmar and assesses: the current state of ICT use; the development of the country’s policy and regulatory environment; key challenges to improved access; and the opportunities and challenges to making services available and affordable to all who want to use them.
Research Interests:
The impact of innovative and appropriate technologies on the livelihoods of the poor and the disadvantaged in developing countries has been the concern of DFID for some time. Modern Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have... more
The impact of innovative and appropriate technologies on the livelihoods of the poor and the disadvantaged in developing countries has been the concern of DFID for some time. Modern Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have the potential to play a substantial role in poverty reduction, but further knowledge and work on realising benefits and understanding the impact of ICTs is needed.
This paper looks at examples of both types of intervention and their potential impact on poverty. It presents several methodologies for impact assessment and assesses their relevance and usefulness to ICT based projects, particularly in the field of enterprise development.
This paper looks at examples of both types of intervention and their potential impact on poverty. It presents several methodologies for impact assessment and assesses their relevance and usefulness to ICT based projects, particularly in the field of enterprise development.
Research Interests:
Over the last seven and half years, government leadership in Bangladesh has been critical in establishing a Digital Bangladesh and for making progress toward ICT and broadband targets. This leadership will continue to be vital, as... more
Over the last seven and half years, government leadership in Bangladesh has been critical in establishing a Digital Bangladesh and for making progress toward ICT and broadband targets. This leadership will continue to be vital, as Bangladesh faces a number of challenges to increasing access to and use of affordable Internet. Most Bangladeshis do not use the Internet, despite relatively low prices for services. Making services more affordable for the majority of Bangladeshis will be important if the country is to achieve middle-income status by 2021, and the policy and regulatory reforms undertaken in recent years must be strengthened and built upon, in order for Bangladesh to see progress.
Research Interests:
With advancement in technologies, the world has started to witness certain changes that could well undermine women and girls’ access to, active use of ICTs and their participation in decision-making on ICTs. Digital revolution caused by... more
With advancement in technologies, the world has started to witness certain changes that could well undermine women and girls’ access to, active use of ICTs and their participation in decision-making on ICTs. Digital revolution caused by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, big data, robotics, etc., could have adverse effects on both men and women in years to come. The risks facing the humanity due to the above technological advances replacing human jobs, especially the manual ones, are not distributed equally. Although, it might appear that men are likely to be affected more, women are equally vulnerable.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
At ASIST 2001 conference, a digital divide panel session on issues, policies, and case studies were very well-received. This year, as a followup, three presenters will discuss how to bridge digital divide at local, regional, and global... more
At ASIST 2001 conference, a digital divide panel session on issues, policies, and case studies were very well-received. This year, as a followup, three presenters will discuss how to bridge digital divide at local, regional, and global levels.
Research Interests:
Newsletter of OneWorld South Asia
Research Interests:
An Initiative To Encourage Peer To Peer Learning Among Grassroots Knowledge Workers South to South Exchange as a concept is very recent, an invention of organizations such as the Global Knowledge Partnership (GKP), Hivos, International... more
An Initiative To Encourage Peer To Peer Learning Among Grassroots Knowledge Workers
South to South Exchange as a concept is very recent, an invention of
organizations such as the Global Knowledge Partnership (GKP), Hivos,
International Institute of Communication for Development (IICD) and M S
Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF). When the concept was mooted by Professor Arunachalam of MSSRF for the first time, OneWorld South Asia was the first among those who endorsed the idea, rather with vigour. OneWorld South Asia, an organization that believes in voicing the voiceless provides opportunities for the poor and marginalized communities to voice their concerns themselves. In this effort, we realize that the first and foremost step is to make the poor communities believe that they have a voice; yes, they too have a voice. Not only people seldom realize that they have a voice, they refuse to believe that their voice can be heard. South to South exchange programme is an attempt to make these communities realize this fact – mainly from their peers who have taken the
first step towards voicing their voice.
South to South Exchange as a concept is very recent, an invention of
organizations such as the Global Knowledge Partnership (GKP), Hivos,
International Institute of Communication for Development (IICD) and M S
Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF). When the concept was mooted by Professor Arunachalam of MSSRF for the first time, OneWorld South Asia was the first among those who endorsed the idea, rather with vigour. OneWorld South Asia, an organization that believes in voicing the voiceless provides opportunities for the poor and marginalized communities to voice their concerns themselves. In this effort, we realize that the first and foremost step is to make the poor communities believe that they have a voice; yes, they too have a voice. Not only people seldom realize that they have a voice, they refuse to believe that their voice can be heard. South to South exchange programme is an attempt to make these communities realize this fact – mainly from their peers who have taken the
first step towards voicing their voice.
Research Interests:
The recommendations below are the main outcomes of the first-ever multi-stakeholder based ‘India Public Libraries Conference’ held on 17-19 March 2015. The programme committee that was responsible for the entire programme content was... more
The recommendations below are the main
outcomes of the first-ever multi-stakeholder
based ‘India Public Libraries Conference’
held on 17-19 March 2015. The programme
committee that was responsible for the entire
programme content was assisted by a group
of rapporteurs who summarised the outcomes
of each of the ten sessions at the IPLC.
These summary reports helped the Drafting
Committee comprising of Dr Basheerhamad
Shadrach, Mr P Jayarajan and Dr H K Kaul
to draw the main recommendations that
emerged from the conference. These were
presented in draft format at the valedictory
session and were subsequently posted
online for further input by each and every
participant of the conference. A large
number of individuals, including the eminent
speakers offered their feedback to the draft
recommendations. All input were synthesized
and incorporated into the final set of
recommendations that are outlined in the document
outcomes of the first-ever multi-stakeholder
based ‘India Public Libraries Conference’
held on 17-19 March 2015. The programme
committee that was responsible for the entire
programme content was assisted by a group
of rapporteurs who summarised the outcomes
of each of the ten sessions at the IPLC.
These summary reports helped the Drafting
Committee comprising of Dr Basheerhamad
Shadrach, Mr P Jayarajan and Dr H K Kaul
to draw the main recommendations that
emerged from the conference. These were
presented in draft format at the valedictory
session and were subsequently posted
online for further input by each and every
participant of the conference. A large
number of individuals, including the eminent
speakers offered their feedback to the draft
recommendations. All input were synthesized
and incorporated into the final set of
recommendations that are outlined in the document
Research Interests:
The need for Global Academy was realised within a year of the launch of telecentre.org as a global programme hosted by the International Development Research Centre in 2005. The idea for a continuous learning programme for telecentre... more
The need for Global Academy was realised within a year of the launch of telecentre.org as a global programme hosted by the International Development Research Centre in 2005. The idea for a continuous learning programme for telecentre operators was mooted by Microsoft and further explored by the team members of telecentre.org in October 2006 as an exploratory theme. The telecentre.org staffs in Delhi were asked to lead the research and development process. This report is the outcome of three year long work in this direction
Research Interests:
"The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology approached the International Telecommunications Union with a request to independently assess the impact of one of its flagship programmes under the National e-Governance Plan,... more
"The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology approached the International Telecommunications Union with a request to independently assess the impact of one of its flagship
programmes under the National e-Governance Plan, the Common Services Centres, with a view to strengthen its outreach to citizens and to improve its efficiency by bringing about mid course corrections.
This report submitted by the International Telecommunications Union aims at presenting recommendations to the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY), the main
implementer of the programme, and to other actors in the telecentre ecosystem in India as a means to enhance their work practices and to ensure that the overall objectives of the programme are achieved.
This study, by no means, aims to pronounce a verdict on the Common Services Centres programme of the DeitY. However, it aims at highlighting areas of concern and offering potential remedies that could be undertaken, while also appreciating the achievements of the programme in the making."
programmes under the National e-Governance Plan, the Common Services Centres, with a view to strengthen its outreach to citizens and to improve its efficiency by bringing about mid course corrections.
This report submitted by the International Telecommunications Union aims at presenting recommendations to the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY), the main
implementer of the programme, and to other actors in the telecentre ecosystem in India as a means to enhance their work practices and to ensure that the overall objectives of the programme are achieved.
This study, by no means, aims to pronounce a verdict on the Common Services Centres programme of the DeitY. However, it aims at highlighting areas of concern and offering potential remedies that could be undertaken, while also appreciating the achievements of the programme in the making."
Research Interests:
The meeting was organised around five themes: 1. Sustainable livelihood and poverty reduction. 2. Education for empowerment. 3. Health, water and sanitation. 4. Combating epidemics. 5. Promoting good governance. There were five... more
The meeting was organised around five themes:
1. Sustainable livelihood and poverty reduction.
2. Education for empowerment.
3. Health, water and sanitation.
4. Combating epidemics.
5. Promoting good governance.
There were five plenary sessions that set the tone and provided essential inputs that informed the thematic working group discussions. The thematic sessions included presentations by experienced development practitioners and began with a brief overview of the current status of the progress on the MDGs in South Asia.
The delegates critiqued some major strategies that were adopted by the Government, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), NGOs and even the private sector in working towards the realisation of the MDGs. Some ongoing initiatives were presented, stimulating the discussions that followed towards strategies that worked and those that did not. Attempts were made to explore ways in which
ICTs can be harnessed for incorporating these learnings to achieve the dramatic transformation that is essential for unhindered progress.
Critical issues that emerged from the thematic sessions were then discussed in the plenary to enable all the delegates to hear clear the proceedings of all the groups.
By the end of the meeting, linkages between the five themes emerged. Thus the invitees at the ARM took centre stage as they shared their experiences and observations, debated on various issues of policy, technology, research and values that would contribute towards sustainable development for the millennium.
There was extensive deliberations on questions of equity, accessibility, outreach, capacity building, accountability and benchmarks of effectiveness.
1. Sustainable livelihood and poverty reduction.
2. Education for empowerment.
3. Health, water and sanitation.
4. Combating epidemics.
5. Promoting good governance.
There were five plenary sessions that set the tone and provided essential inputs that informed the thematic working group discussions. The thematic sessions included presentations by experienced development practitioners and began with a brief overview of the current status of the progress on the MDGs in South Asia.
The delegates critiqued some major strategies that were adopted by the Government, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), NGOs and even the private sector in working towards the realisation of the MDGs. Some ongoing initiatives were presented, stimulating the discussions that followed towards strategies that worked and those that did not. Attempts were made to explore ways in which
ICTs can be harnessed for incorporating these learnings to achieve the dramatic transformation that is essential for unhindered progress.
Critical issues that emerged from the thematic sessions were then discussed in the plenary to enable all the delegates to hear clear the proceedings of all the groups.
By the end of the meeting, linkages between the five themes emerged. Thus the invitees at the ARM took centre stage as they shared their experiences and observations, debated on various issues of policy, technology, research and values that would contribute towards sustainable development for the millennium.
There was extensive deliberations on questions of equity, accessibility, outreach, capacity building, accountability and benchmarks of effectiveness.
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An analysis of the use of ICTs in delivering public services to people living in the shanty towns of Karachi, Pakistan
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This toolkit is an outcome of the knowledge and research program of DFID carried out in India, Pakistan, Croatia and Nigeria
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Toolkit offers a step by step guide to the use of ICTs in delivering public services
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Investigating the use of ICTs in the lives of Roma population in Croatia
Research Interests: Poverty, Poverty Reduction Strategies, Information and Communication technology, eGovernment, eGovernance, and 7 moreInformation and Communication Sciences, Information and Communication Technologies, Information and Communications Technology, Croatia, Poverty Alleviation, Pro Poor Value Chain Development, and Basheerhamad Shadrach
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This toolkit enables you to learn how one could serve the ultra poor in enabling them access their legitimate public services through the use of ICTs
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In 2010, internet penetration in Myanmar was less than 0.3 per cent of the population, amounting to a mere 130,000 users. By 2016 this figure had risen 100 times to 13 million citizens online, and this number continues to grow. The... more
In 2010, internet penetration in Myanmar was less than 0.3 per cent of the population, amounting to a mere 130,000 users. By 2016 this figure had risen 100 times to 13 million citizens online, and this number continues to grow.
The article details the steps the government has to undertake to sustain the growth in an equitable and universal manner
The article details the steps the government has to undertake to sustain the growth in an equitable and universal manner
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The 124 th birth anniversary celebrations of Dr Siyali Ramamrita Ranganathan, celebrated throughout the country today can be considered as one of the traditions that some 100,000 libraries and their guardians could never stop. Dr... more
The 124 th birth anniversary celebrations of Dr Siyali Ramamrita Ranganathan, celebrated throughout the country today can be considered as one of the traditions that some 100,000 libraries and their guardians could never stop. Dr Ranganathan is in the league of the many greats this nation has given birth to, and among those who are remembered fervently by thousands of individuals of whom only a handful may have seen him in person. Only a few leaders are remembered that way, and often times, those who are remembered may have had promoters whose mission was to ensure remembrance of those individuals. Dr Ranaganathan's case is different. Neither he had his descendants nor his family members who ensured that 124 times over, even after four decades of his passing away, the man is remembered. It is those who have indirectly benefitted from his contributions ensured his birthday observance year after year. It is apt to say that the librarians are those who benefitted the least among all those who found benefits in Ranganathan's contribution. First, the seekers of knowledge who benefitted the most. Then the academics who sought to understand knowledge organisations who benefited next. And, then, the millions of technocrats who work in the area of knowledge management followed suit. And, finally the librarians who reaped the benefits by making their libraries vibrant. So, the least of those who consciously benefited from the works of Ranganathan have stayed faithful and have been remembering him on the 12th of August each year. A good number of them are joined together today, thanks to the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation that chose to remember him and his contributions. A large number of those that attend this function are dispersed all over the country. That is the commitment of these indirect beneficiaries of Ranganathan, none of whom had the opportunity to meet up with him in person. Perhaps, a good number of the library innovators were not even born when Ranganathan died. My congratulations to all who have chosen to show solidarity today with what MSSRF is upto. Having stated that the librarians are the indirect beneficiaries of Dr Ranganathan's works, I wish to enlist a few among the hundreds of his major contributions today. Those are:-Five laws of library science-Basic principles of classification-Colon classification-Classified catalogue code-Madras Public Libraries Act and other state Acts-Establishment of library schools-Establishment of the Documentation Research and Training Centre Someone who managed to stand tall amongst the 900 applicants who wanted to be the Librarian of Madras University simply on the basis of his performance in the interview, largely guided by an article on librarianship that read from the Encyclopaedia Britannica on the eve of his selection in 1923, Dr Ranganathan went on to comprehend a lot more of librarianship in his life. And, among those are the five laws that he left behind as a legacy, something is displayed as the sutra in a good
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In 2021, Bangladesh will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its independence. Vision 2021 outlines a number of concrete goals for the country to achieve, with the ultimate aim of eradicating poverty and transforming Bangladesh into a... more
In 2021, Bangladesh will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its independence. Vision 2021 outlines a number of concrete goals for the country to achieve, with the ultimate aim of eradicating poverty and transforming Bangladesh into a middle-income nation by the time of the country’s golden jubilee. The idea of a “Digital Bangladesh” is an integral part of this vision, which views the use of ICTs and digital technologies as critical to socio-economic transformation and the achievement of the development goals outlined in the Vision 2021 framework.
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http://a4ai.org/affordability-connectivity-relevant-content-issues-remain-challenges-to-access-in-asia/ Mobile growth in Asia today accounts for two-thirds of mobile growth globally, and for more than 40% of global mobile revenue — a... more
http://a4ai.org/affordability-connectivity-relevant-content-issues-remain-challenges-to-access-in-asia/
Mobile growth in Asia today accounts for two-thirds of mobile growth globally, and for more than 40% of global mobile revenue — a figure that surpasses the contribution made by North America and Europe combined. These figures, while impressive, arise primarily thanks to multiple SIM ownership in the Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and South Korean markets. The Asian continent, for the most part, remains unconnected — 68% of the region’s 4.5 billion people are still not online.
http://a4ai.org/affordability-connectivity-relevant-content-issues-remain-challenges-to-access-in-asia/
Mobile growth in Asia today accounts for two-thirds of mobile growth globally, and for more than 40% of global mobile revenue — a figure that surpasses the contribution made by North America and Europe combined. These figures, while impressive, arise primarily thanks to multiple SIM ownership in the Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and South Korean markets. The Asian continent, for the most part, remains unconnected — 68% of the region’s 4.5 billion people are still not online.
http://a4ai.org/affordability-connectivity-relevant-content-issues-remain-challenges-to-access-in-asia/
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If the world were to end extreme poverty, and redeem nearly one seventh of its population thatgoes hungry every day, we require some 175 billion dollars each year for the next 20 years. Thisneed constitutes less than 1 per cent of the... more
If the world were to end extreme poverty, and redeem nearly one seventh of its population thatgoes hungry every day, we require some 175 billion dollars each year for the next 20 years. Thisneed constitutes less than 1 per cent of the combined income of the 30 richest countries of theworld that constitute the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Whilethe governments have the responsibility to help overcome poverty, it is ironical that governments of developing nations and the OECD combined lost between $190 billion and $225 billion in the 2012 totax havens that ensure the billion people go hungry
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""Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights allows each and every individual to have the right to hold, express, seek, receive and impart information and ideas... more
""Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights allows each and every individual to have the right to hold, express, seek, receive and impart information and ideas without interference from any quarter, state or authorities. This freedom extends to all frontiers, oral, print, and all the other media of one’s choice. However, the same article highlights the duties and the responsibilities of those who benefit from this law to also enforce certain restrictions when necessary, especially when they realise that their act shall infringe upon others, especially in the order of national security and public health and/or morale.
The answer to the question, how much is too much, lies in the article itself, and it is for each individual, organisation and/or the entity that uses the provisions of article 19 to ensure that there is no abuse.""
The answer to the question, how much is too much, lies in the article itself, and it is for each individual, organisation and/or the entity that uses the provisions of article 19 to ensure that there is no abuse.""
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Many of the global organisations, involved in the promotion of lifelong learning, have largely found a common definition to the concept. Any form of intentional learning activities carried out through formal, non-formal and informal... more
Many of the global organisations, involved in the promotion of lifelong learning, have largely found a common definition to the concept. Any form of intentional learning activities carried out through formal, non-formal and informal methods, throughout one’s lifetime by a person to gain competencies and skills, improve knowledge and to acquire new understanding, can broadly be defined as lifelong learning
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As countries are now starting to bring the pandemic under control and planning their recovery, we can use the knowledge services that have supported populations and governments through the long crisis to ‘build back better’ – to repair... more
As countries are now starting to bring the pandemic under control and planning their recovery, we can use the knowledge services that have supported populations and governments through the long crisis to ‘build back better’ – to repair the damage to public health, social conditions and economic activity. At this event, experts from across the region will share their ideas about how partnerships between libraries and other sectors can support economic and social development of communities, across a number of Sustainable Development Goals.
Research Interests: International Relations, Library Science, Southeast Asian Studies, Academic Libraries, Public Libraries, and 10 moreUnited Nations, Library and Information Science, Skills Development, IFLA, 21st Century Skills, Basheerhamad Shadrach, Asia/Pacific, Library, Public Policy, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
In the 21st Century world, it is important for students to possess not just academic knowledge and practical expertise but also a set of skills that would prepare themselves for tomorrow's uncertain world. The presentation speaks to the... more
In the 21st Century world, it is important for students to possess not just academic knowledge and practical expertise but also a set of skills that would prepare themselves for tomorrow's uncertain world. The presentation speaks to the need for possessing essential skills for the future so that each individual could succeed in life.
Research Interests: Management, Engineering, Library Science, Academic Libraries, Digital Media & Learning, and 8 moreEmployability Skills, Technical and Vocational Education, Digital Library, Soft Skills, 21st Century Education, Teaching Reading and Writing Skills, 21st Century Skills, and Critical Thinking Skills In Language Classess
A presentation at the inaugural event of Reading Mission 2022 celebrations in June 2020
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This presentation at a national webinar discusses the potential role of library association in the development of future strategies for libraries at large
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The presentation discusses the potentials of Augmented and Virtual Reality techniques in TVET education and learning.
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A presentation made at a conference in Dhaka discusses the role of public libraries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the month of April 2019
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This key note address at the Digital Development Forum of the Asian Development Bank, Manila in October 2018 highlights the role of broadband internet in socio-economic development of societies while also underlying the importance of... more
This key note address at the Digital Development Forum of the Asian Development Bank, Manila in October 2018 highlights the role of broadband internet in socio-economic development of societies while also underlying the importance of affordable internet amongst the most marginalised communities, especially women.
Research Interests: Information Systems, Information Science, Information Technology, Information Communication Technology, ICT in Education, and 13 moreICT4D, Information/Communication Technologies and Development, Digital Media & Learning, ICT for Development, ICT innovation, Broadband, Asian Development Bank, Information and Communication Technologies, ICT in teaching and learning English language, Community Informatics, Digital Literacy and the Digital Divide, ICT4D (Information and Communication Technology for Development particularly in Sustainable Socio-economic Development), Basheerhamad Shadrach, B Shadrach, and Information & Communication Technologies In Education ICT&E
This invited talk at the Shoman Foundation in Amman during their annual lecture series in September 2018 highlights the role of public libraries in promoting print and digital reading among community members, especially those who are... more
This invited talk at the Shoman Foundation in Amman during their annual lecture series in September 2018 highlights the role of public libraries in promoting print and digital reading among community members, especially those who are deprived of reading material and information sources.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2a9NV80B8o&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2a9NV80B8o&feature=youtu.be
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This key note at the Asia-Oceania section of the International Federation of Library Association and Institutions' World Library Congress in Kuala Lumpur in July 2018 was aimed to highlight the challenges and the opportunities facing... more
This key note at the Asia-Oceania section of the International Federation of Library Association and Institutions' World Library Congress in Kuala Lumpur in July 2018 was aimed to highlight the challenges and the opportunities facing public libraries in the Asia Pacific region at the advent of information and communication technologies on one hand and the demographic dividend in urban setting on the other hand.
Research Interests: Public Libraries, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Information Communication Technology, Social Study of Information & Communication Technology, and 7 moreLibrary and Information Science, Information and Communication technology, India, Social transformation, Knowledge Communities, Basheerhamad Shadrach, and B Shadrach
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Research Interests: Corporate Social Responsibility, Social Entrepreneurship, Community Development, Corporate Governance, Information Communication Technology, and 9 moreEnvironmental Sustainability, Green Supply Chain Management, Anti-Corruption, ICTs, Ethical Leadership, Responsible Consumption, Basheerhamad Shadrach, Social Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and Human Rights and Corruption
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... Authors: Shadrach, Basheerhamad. Issue Date: 2004. Publisher: © BasheerhamadShadrach. Description: A Doctoral Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Doctor of Philosophy of Loughborough... more
... Authors: Shadrach, Basheerhamad. Issue Date: 2004. Publisher: © BasheerhamadShadrach. Description: A Doctoral Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Doctor of Philosophy of Loughborough University. ...
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This presentation aimed at school teachers on Open Educational Resources is to make them participate in the OER movement.
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A Talk by Prof. B. Shadrach Director, Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia On Professor G Ram Reddy's 94 th birth anniversary, it gives me immense pleasure to be the chief guest and deliver the memorial lecture at Dr B R... more
A Talk by Prof. B. Shadrach Director, Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia On Professor G Ram Reddy's 94 th birth anniversary, it gives me immense pleasure to be the chief guest and deliver the memorial lecture at Dr B R Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) in Hyderabad on this day, 12 January 2024. Professor G Ram Reddy, who left the education community some 29 years ago, just a few days after receiving the Meritorious Award of Excellence, co-sponsored by the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) and the International Council for Distance Education (ICDE) in England at the age of 65, left a huge void in the world of open and distance learning.
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The annual lecture to commemorate Professor K A Isaac's anniversary in the year 2021 highlights the new skills required among the library fraternity to face the new world and the future.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4fR8byYhro
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4fR8byYhro
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is having a significant impact on education, and its role is likely to grow in the years to come. AI can be used to personalize learning, provide feedback, and create engaging educational experiences. Here are... more
Artificial intelligence (AI) is having a significant impact on education, and its role is likely to grow in the years to come. AI can be used to personalize learning, provide feedback, and create engaging educational experiences.
Here are some of the ways that AI is impacting education:
• Personalized learning: AI can be used to personalize learning by providing students with individualized instruction and feedback. This can help students learn at their own pace and address their specific needs.
• Feedback: AI can be used to provide students with feedback on their work. This feedback can be tailored to the individual student and can help them improve their skills and knowledge.
• Engaging educational experiences: AI can be used to create engaging educational experiences that capture students' attention and motivate them to learn. This can be done through the use of games, simulations, and other interactive activities.
Here are some of the ways that AI is impacting education:
• Personalized learning: AI can be used to personalize learning by providing students with individualized instruction and feedback. This can help students learn at their own pace and address their specific needs.
• Feedback: AI can be used to provide students with feedback on their work. This feedback can be tailored to the individual student and can help them improve their skills and knowledge.
• Engaging educational experiences: AI can be used to create engaging educational experiences that capture students' attention and motivate them to learn. This can be done through the use of games, simulations, and other interactive activities.
Research Interests: Artificial Intelligence, Education, Educational Technology, Teacher Education, E-learning, and 8 moreHigher Education, Open Access, Digital Media & Learning, Open Innovation, Artificial Neural Networks for modeling purposes, Personalised learning, Open Distance Learning (ODL), and Open Distance Learning
: The concept of learning needs to be situated in the future of work and workplaces. While we recognize the domains of learning, as pronounced by Benjamin Bloom in terms of Cognitive, Psychomotor and Affective in which we recognize that... more
: The concept of learning needs to be situated in the future of work and workplaces. While we recognize the domains of learning, as pronounced by Benjamin Bloom in terms of Cognitive, Psychomotor and Affective in which we recognize that the application of mind, body and heart, we will need to contexualise it in the modern day. Globalisation, Fourth IR, Demographic Shifts, Climate Change, Digital Technologies all influence the way we conduct our business, organize ourselves and prepare for the future. Learning happens in this context which is why Adult Learning and Education (ALE) has become the subject of discussion
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Future of Librarianship is likely to be affected, especially services such as reference, abstracting, bibliographic, on and above classification, cataloguing, customer services. There will be a special focus on higher valued added tasks... more
Future of Librarianship is likely to be affected, especially services such as reference, abstracting, bibliographic, on and above classification, cataloguing, customer services. There will be a special focus on higher valued added tasks – requiring higher-order skills; more qualified (skilled) personnel , and the need for those who can apply human intelligence and offer high accuracy, relevance and reliability.
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This key note speech was made at Amity University, Gurgaon on 9 June 2023 at the inaugural session of their two-week long capacity building programme for faculty members of higher education institutions in India
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This presentation was made by Basheerhamad Shadrach on the topic: How can distance and online learning provide lifelong learning opportunities for skilling, upskilling and reskilling the workforce? at the Global Vice Chancellors' meeting... more
This presentation was made by Basheerhamad Shadrach on the topic: How can distance and online learning provide lifelong learning opportunities for skilling, upskilling and reskilling the workforce? at the Global Vice Chancellors' meeting in Penang, Malaysia in July 2022
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Presentation by B Shadrach at the Global Trends in eLearning 2023 (G-TEL 2023) conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 12 February 2023, highlighting if and how eLearning can be sustained in the new digital era
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This presentation was made at the Association of Indian Universities' Vice Chancellors meet in Aurangabad in March 2023
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Presentation made at the event entitled, BILT Bridging Event: Mapping current trends in TVET for sustainable and digital transformation, organised by Omnia and UNESCO-UNEVOC in Espoo, Finland on 21-22 June 2022
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The number of newer skills and service orientation required among library professionals in the 4th IR world