In an effort to expand the computer training market, NIIT has launched a course targeted at mothers who want to learn to use a computer. The company has already prepared a new courseware, which will be used to teach `mothers' basics about computers.

"For a long time we have trained people who want to take up computers as a career option. As opposed to that we, with this course, are addressing a different set of people who are not looking at IT as a career option," said Abhas Kumar, general manager, NIIT.

To target its new set of students, NIIT has designed and structured its course in such a way that thay are able to attain a certain level of comfort in using computers in the shortest possible time. The courses will be of eight to 36 hours in duration and will attract a fee starting from Rs 499 to Rs 2,500.

According to NIIT, these courses will teach thestudents to use basic software like word processors, spread sheets and E-mail packages without teaching them the functionalities of different components of a computer.

"Like reading and writing, usage of computers is fast becoming a necessity. As people will increasingly start interacting with computers in their daily life they should have a certain amount of comfort level with computers," said Kumar.

This probably is the first time that any computer training institute in the country has explored the option of targeting a different set of audience. Till now, these institutes have been actively targeting young students and offering them computers as a career option.