Reliance Webworld has launched a certification program on computers and internet for kids between the age group of 5 to 13 years.

''In this 7-day programme, kids are taught the basics of computer hardware, Internet surfing and searching educational, news and entertainment sites using search engines," said Sandeep Arora, head, Madhya Pradesh- Chhattisgarh and Orissa Reliance Webworldwide.

Reliance Webworld operates a nationwide chain of retail stores for digital entertainment and communication. Presently, it is also running educational programmes for senior citizens, housewives and students in Madhya Pradesh.

The programme aims to make them Internet savvy and making best use of the technological tools already in place at the Web world. A certificate would be given to all the students on successful completion of the programme.

So far, more than twenty batches of students have successfully completed the courses at the Web Worlds in Bhopal and Indore, Arora added.

Webworld is also considering expanding its base in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh with four to five new outlets.

''At present, Madhya Pradesh has eight Webworld outlets, two in Bhopal, four in Indore, one in Gwalior and one in Jabalpur. We would be setting up new outlets in Ujjain, Bhopal and also in Bhilai or Raipur ", said Arora. Four-five new outlets would entail investments to the tune of nearly Rs 5 crore," Arora added.

The firm is also toying with the idea of converting the existing Webworlds in Madhya Pradesh into mini BPOs at night.

"Talks are on, this exercise would be a part of the plan of utilising office space to the maximum," said Arora, while talking to the media.

The broadband centers available in 92 cities in the country would be made available in over 100 cities all over India. There are 242 Reliance Web Worlds in 111 cities of India.

(Business Standard)