Telecenter is assumed to be an information center which also is equipped with internet access other forms of information and communication technologies, such as FAX, Phone, photo-copier, scanner, digital camera, etc. There is no, in country context, however, definition for a telecenter. Recommended definition is that: this center would not only provide cyber cafe or PCO type services but, in addition to some level of cost-free informational services, it should also provide developmental services. Cost-free informational services would include High School rest results, news, etc. On the other hand, developmental services should include range of services: from linking local farmers to capital markets to providing agro-based product prices to how to pulp coffee beans to referals to health posts or hospitals. Please click here to view telecenter mapping.
Role of Telecenters
Role of a telecenter is to facilitate above mentioned services to local community members. For commercial, the service fee should be affordable by the locals. For developmental, the center is expected to conduct needs assessment, and based on the results, establish developmental services. To do both in a sustainable manner is the goal of telecenter.
Contents that are available in the world wide web are more than often in English. Telecenters are expected to also translate that in to Nepali for the service seekers.
Registered Telecenters/RICs
Actual numbers of operational Telecenters or rural information centers (RIC) are being studied by Rural Telecenter Coordination Committee (RTCC) at High Level Commission for IT. There are combinations of I/NGOs, CBOs, Government agencies and private sector that are participating in establishing such centers through different models. Those Telecenters or RICs which are registered in this website are the ones that are operational at the moment. Following are the registered Telecenters or RICs:
