15
Schools
We have installed computer labs in 15 schools ranging from primary to higher secondary schools in remote parts of Nepal.
82
Computers
Through seed funding and donations from friends and families we have installed over 82 terminals in 15 computer labs.
3,600+
Students
Our computer lab implementations have helped over 3,600 students gain a technologically enhanced education.
WHO WE ARE
eBlackboard is a nonprofit organization registered in the state of North Carolina, USA (SOSID*:1700162), with the mission to bridge the technological divide within the education of underprivileged students in remote and underserved communities of developing countries.
*SOSID Verification http://www.sosnc.gov/verification
WHAT WE DO
We design, test, and implement low-cost power-efficient computer labs for remote schools in developing countries. Our computer labs effectively enhance the computer literacy and interactive learning experience of students through programs such as E-Paath, a collection of digital interactive learning activities developed by OLE Nepal. We work with the local nonprofit organizations such as Rotary Clubs to implement, monitor, and evaluate the project for optimal impact to the beneficiary schools.
HOW IT WORKS
The computers we use in the computer labs are mostly Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+. It is a credit card-sized computer that can run a majority of applications that an average desktop computer can run, but using less than fifty times power and at a fifth of the cost. It is a highly effective solution to bridging the widening technological gap in developing countries' education systems.
The System on Chip (SoC) computer card is packed with features such as built-in wi-fi, Bluetooth, four USB ports, a microSD card slot, and a 1.4 GHz CPU backed by 1GB RAM. Its Linux based operating system is optimized to be used as a stand-alone computer or in a client-server mode. The Raspberry Pi OS and digital content are loaded into a microSD card and inserted directly into the computer for its operation. It can connect to internet through built-in Wi-Fi and lightweight Chrome browser. The OS comes with default softwares such as Libre Office and programming languages like Scratch, Java and Python. The latest version - Raspberry Pi 400 - is integrated into a keyboard and has quad core processors with up to 4 GB RAM running at 1.6GHz.
THE TEAM
Abin
Pradhan
Project Manager
Coordinates project implementation, manages networking with project partners and evaluates new educational solutions.
Coordinates project volunteers and implementation on site. Provides logistical support and maintains the eBlackboard website.
Nabin
Acharya
Technology Advisor
Provides technical advice on digital content and infrastructure building for educational environment.
