Talk:Olpc challenges
Great Idea; Fantastic Product. Thanks for your vision!
My Question to Dr. Negroponte --- I see browsing the Wiki that OLPC is rigid about the idea of ONLY selling to Govenments. Why?
Most developing countries have corrupt government systems. Even if Central governments may be relatively Clean, local govenrments and 'administrators' are corrupt. Dont forget about local Mafia's. The potential for abuse is wide open, use your imagination.
OLPC should Sell the laptop to interested NGO's and local/regional/International Charities, and develop a system of accountability for these organizations. OLPC could also demand project timelines and set goals for these organizations. Alternatively, or concurrently, You can also develop a system to match 'geographic regions' to 'interested charities'.
With NGO's There is a better chance that the $100 laptop remains the $100 laptop it was intended when it reaches the child's hand.
(I am not a member of an NGO, this is just my opinion about the matter)
I will look forward to your reply.
Dr. Ramesh Rao, MD rao@doctor.com USA