Internet centers for classical Universities in the main regions of Russia

The authors dwell on the basic principles and technologies for the implementation of the large-scale program “Creation of Internet centers in 33 leading classical Universities in Russia”. The aim of the program was to provide open access to global information resources for students, teachers, and employees of cultural and scientific organizations. The program was carried out in 1996-2000 by the government of the Russian Federation in collaboration with the Open Society Institute and regional administrations. The main results of the program are presented. Its impact on the development of organizations of culture, science, and healthcare, as well as on the creation of the telecommunication basis for the university educational process is assessed.