YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 21, NOYAN TAPAN. Within the framework of the Armenia School Connectivity Program (ASCP), internet computer centers were founded in 330 schools of the republic. The program has been implemented since 2000 by the Project Harmony Armenia Office, with financing of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs which made 12.5 mln dollars for six years. Siranush Vardanian, the program head stated about it at the November 21 3rd new conference of the ASCP entitled "Exploring ICT Today for a Brighter Tomorrow." It was mentioned that 70 of 330 schools function in the capital, the rest in marzes, including 100 schools in border and rural settlements. In S.Vardanian's words, within the framework of the program those schools were provided with necessary resources, internet. It was mentioned that the program will assist widening of the U.S.-Armenia educational cooperation as well. In words of Levon Mkrtchian, the RA Minister of Education and Science, similar centers will be founded in all schools of the republic during the coming one-two years, and the ASCP will give possibility to liquidate the difference existing between schools of the capital and regions. The Minister also expressed a hope that after change of the "ArmenTel" owner, internet services will be served to schools at lower prices. In L.Mkrtchian's words, the RA Ministry of Education and Science will continue the ASCP implementation from July, 2007.

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