"What is a computer?" If you asked the question to some rural pupils in northwest China's Shaanxi Province a year ago, few of them could answer. But now, some 110,000 students are taking formal computer course in a large number of schools in the province.

Shaanxi, one of China's least developed provinces, had provided an average of one computer for every 774 primary and middle school students by the end of 1997. Since 1998, the local government has worked hard to promote computers in elementary and middle schools throughout the province. Some 210 schools in 35 counties and regions have now set up computer courses. Online education is also available.

The provincial government not only provides financial aid but seeks support from companies to donate computers and related equipment.

Educational departments have carefully chosen computer graduates allocating them to schools in need after special training classes.

Within seven to 10 years, all schools with an enrollment of more than 300 students will set up computer education courses to give rural children access to the modern world.