The Open Learning Centre

Uruguay has become the first country to provide a laptop for every child attending state primary school.

Over the last two years 362,000 pupils and 18,000 teachers have been involved in the scheme deploying the Linux based OLPC (One Laptop per Child).

The Uruguay programme has cost the state $260 (£159) per child, including maintenance costs, equipment repairs, training for the teachers and internet connection. The total figure represents less than 5% of the country's education budget.

Now that all the schoolchildren have their computers, the authorities say that they will endeavour keep the schools connected, particularly those in rural areas, where many still do not have internet access.

There are plans to extend the scheme to secondary schools and pre-school children next year.

Full story here.