Um Salem is an illiterate mother in her late 40’s. “I was excited by the idea of the [mother and child] program but I felt it would be impossible for me to learn anything because I have had no schooling. However, the young interns encouraged me and I am glad I got this opportunity not only to learn how to use a computer, but also to become familiar with the basic alphabet in both the English and the Arabic languages, as well as some numbers.” She also adds, “This is just the beginning. I still have a long way to go!”

The mother and child program was launched by USAID to introduce mothers and children from rural communities to the basics of computer use, and show them how to tap into education software that teaches English, Arabic, mathematics, and problem-solving skills. Volunteers from NetCorps train the mothers and children in using the computers and software. This program is not only bridging the computer gap for women in rural communities, but it is also a fun way of teaching these women how to read and write.

Fatimah is also an illiterate mother. “My neighbor used to teach me some basic Arabic reading and writing; but after joining the program, I am glad I got the chance to learn some English as well. The software showed us what the letters of the alphabet look like as well as how they sound.”

	Khuloud learned computer skills and taught them to her husband.

"I used to be intimidated by computers, to the extent that I would not go near one to dust it. Now, I can use it confidently. I can easily open and close programs, especially games for my children," says Khuloud, one of the mothers from Karak participating in the project. "My husband was my biggest incentive to continue with the project", adds Khuloud. "I started to teach my husband everything we take during the sessions. He would constantly tell me how proud he is of me and all that I have learned. He motivated me and encouraged me, so much so that the Mother & Child Project became a main topic of conversation within our household."

	Afaf is so proud of her daughter, Fatima.

Afaf, a mother from Karak, has always wanted to sign up for a computer course. On this topic she says, "By participating in the Mother & Child Project, I learned to use the computer. But, more importantly, it afforded me the chance to bond and communicate with my daughter Fatima. I am more self-confident now, as I realize that computers have become the language of the century. I hope to buy a home PC, and pay for it in installments, just so that I can encourage my children at home to learn to use the computer." Afaf proudly adds, "One of our relatives bought a computer. One day, when he switched it on, my daughter Fatima started reciting the main parts of a computer and telling them about the icons on the desktop and of the various toolbar functions. Everyone was stunned and asked me where she had learned all that. So, I told them about the Mother & Child Project which made them wish their children could join the classes and learn the same."