Russians who are over 50 most likely have not had a chance to learn computer skills at school - and unless they went to be employed to work with a PC they lack the skills necessary for day-to-day life.

      To tackle this, a regional programme has been initiated in Udmurtia. Throughout the Republic there have been opened special "schools of computer literacy", located in the actual schools and lycaeums, equipped with PCs and the Internet connection.

      The cources are massively popular among citizens: last year over 2000 people became computer literate, and similar, if not higher, numbers are expected for this year. The course lasts 16 academic hours. The majority of first-time students have no idea about computer, so they first receive generic training, then they learn the basics of web surfing, how to register an email account, to use websites, etc. In particular, they register at the portal that allows them to receive the necessary advice and services without queuing up at the providers'. 

      The course is aimed at helping older people to remain active and socially included after they became pensioners. Once the course is finished, one of the schools in Izhevsk plans to host a farewell tea party, "so that our students keep not only the knowledge of computers, but the good memories of their teachers".