CALIFORNIA, Aug 20: California governor Pete Wilson launched a $1-billion initiative on Tuesday to bring on-line access to every public high school classroom in the state over the next four years.

Wilson, who made the announcement at the headquarters of network computing giant Oracle Corp, said the so-called "Digital High School" scheme would give California students a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

"Children who aren't exposed to technology at a young age will enter college or the workplace at a serious disadvantage," Wilson said. "That's why i've insisted that we bring California's classrooms on-line with the tools and technology of the information age."

Wilson's initiative not only will put more computers in classrooms but will also ensure that students are taught to be technologically literate.California's Silicon Valley serves as the home base of many of the world's leading computer firms, including Oracle. But despite its reputation as a high-tech mecca, California still ranks 45th out of 50 in terms of students' access to computer technology.

The programme will provide $500 million in state funds over four years, with a local match requirement doubling its value to $1 billion.

Specifically, the state will give technology installation grants of $300 per student in selected high schools.

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