Acer has carved out a distinct niche in the education market: Sooraj Balakrishnan
Ahead of the HT Code-a-thon 2022, one of India’s largest coding Olympiads, Sooraj Balakrishnan, Head of Marketing, India and Bangladesh, Acer, the technology partner of this national-level competition, sheds light on the role of technology in furthering the education sector during the post-pandemic world. In this interview, he shares that just like Hindustan Times, Acer too believes in providing the right skills at the right time. Coding, he observes, is a life-altering new-age skill in today’s world that can transform the lives of today’s generation.
How has Acer been involved in the post-pandemic digital empowerment with respect to education?
The COVID-19 pandemic compelled all educational institutions worldwide to use the spectrum of available technological, teaching-learning instruments for students in all sectors. Instructors all over the world are discovering new opportunities for online teaching methodology in order to assist their students as much as possible. Acer's purpose has likewise been straightforward: To use technology to bring about improvements in the education system in response to changing circumstances.
Why is Acer partnering with HT for Code-a-thon?
Acer's vision is completely aligned with HT’s Code-a-thon initiative. We both believe in developing the right skills at the right time. Coding is an important skill which can unlock enormous potential with regards to one’s career. In fact, coding also affects the society with the ability to bring in products which can have transformative effects. This programme will prepare students for the future and give them a platform to showcase and improve their coding skills.
Coding and PC are synonymous with each other. As one of the leading technology brands with a variety of IT products for education and smart classroom solutions, we feel, this initiative gives us a great opportunity to partner, support and develop coding as a skill in students in partnership with HT.
What role has Acer played in transforming the education sector so far?
In the last two years, the education sector has seen a significant transformation, with the PC in particular becoming important for academic performance across all sections and ages. So, Acer has carved out a distinct niche in the education market. With the support of its cutting-edge technology and innovations, we have transformed many schools into smart schools, allowing every student to benefit from cutting-edge technology.
Also, Acer has been contributing to the education sector by providing end-to-end learning experiences. We have collaborated with schools and colleges for the accessibility of educational resources and help teachers impart knowledge in a better and smarter way while allowing students to expand their learning horizon.
How are PCs opening new doors for the next generation?
PCs have become ubiquitous now, and the future of education has enormous possibilities. With the current technology, they have the potential to transport a student into a virtual environment that looks close to a natural one. Technologies like Virtual Reality and Machine Learning open several doors for students to foray into interactive learning and this shapes the future of the education system.
How is technology helping the teachers to provide a better teaching-learning experience?
Recent technological breakthroughs have greatly improved the communication process between students and teachers. The use of technology enables a unique channel for teachers to communicate with their students on an individual level within a larger classroom. Online power presentations, online homework assignments, online classes, and individual sessions are some of the ways that teachers can effectively engage with students.