OREANDA-NEWS. December 29, 2011. Communication and Information Technologies Ministry of Azerbaijan forecasts rise in sales of computers within "National computers’ project.

Head of the Ministry’s Strategic Planning Department Isfandiyar Aliyev has informed that 25% rise in sales of ‘national computers’ can be expected in 2012.

" Up to date about 16.000 computers have been sold within the project on concessional term.  The fact that the project promoted to provision of similar conditions for local companies for computer sales outside the project is very pleasing. It enables rise of population’s opportunities for purchasing computers ",- he noted.

According to I. Aliyev renewal of  range of HP computers provided on concessional terms as well as Symantec and  Microsoft program solutions is expected next year.

Since early 2012 sales growth of “national computers” increased by 37.3% and reached 15.955 units.

Today computers can be bought on concessional terms by families, whose members are teachers and pupils of secondary schools, university teachers and students and health care workers.

Computing power of computers is 3 GB at the price of AZN 600-700, depending on configuration.

Cellular operators Azercell Telekom and Azerfon have also acceded to the project. They issue data cards and Internet traffic on credit on concessional conditions. Another project participant Symantec supplies security systems.

The main objective of the project is to create conditions for purchase of computers and licensed software by various social layers of the population, reduce “digital inequality” by increasing ICT introduction in the regions, and support of activity of the Azerbaijani government, aimed at developing the information society and e-government.  All equipment is provided on interest-free credit for 12 months. The total cost of computers and licensed software package provided within National Computer Project is below than the market price by 25-40%. Those who buy computers within the project will be provided with materials about computers, the Internet, and corresponding electronic teaching materials provided by the Ministry of Education.

Azerpoct (national postal operator) deals with delivery of computers and acceptance of monthly payments, while HP and Microsoft’s local partners BestComp Group and Ultra with supply of computers and licensed software.