The event will provide activities in basic computer and Internet skills at the ministry's building on Rama VI Road, in order to encourage people aged 50 and over to learn about new technology and help narrow the gap between them and younger people. The ministry's experts and retired staff members will help train the participants, he added.

Bangkok resident Surawut Thepraksa, 64, said that technology was complicated, but it was not difficult to learn. Although he was interested in the upcoming event, the venue was too far away for him. He urged the ministry to expand it to other areas so that more people could benefit.

Another city resident, Wisoot Kampeeborwon, 58, said he was interested in the event too, and the distance was not a problem for him. Although he was already able to search the Internet for information, he said some computer programmes were difficult. Eager to increase his computer knowledge, Wisoot said he would visit the event when he had free time.

Later this month, the ministry's National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre will launch a website, www.bangcare.net, to provide health and lifestyle information for elderly people.

Jakrapan Seebunruang

The Nation