BBC News reports that Schools in Russia are moving towards Linux. By 2009, all computers in Russian schools are to be run on Linux – which means they will not have to pay for a licence for software, such as Microsoft’s Windows. Schools are using pirated copies of Windows. The government began prosecuting the schools for illegal use of software after Russia entered WTO.
The Linux software is to be tested first in three pilot regions, while others will have the option of installing it as a second operating system. These pilot schools will then get the option to choose either the free software or to pay for something else.
Even though they chose Linux due to government cracking on privacy and funding problem, it’s a welcome move.
Thanks: bored and blogging.