Speaking on behalf of OLPC, Walter Bender claimed that politicians were unwilling to buy into the OLPC scheme because "change equals risk".
The aim of the OLPC, a non-profit organisation is to develop a low-cost laptop that it hopes will revolutionise how we educate children on a global scale. The OLPC XO, the first model, went on sale in the US on November 12th and is in the process of being rolled out to third world countries.
Despite original adoption of the scheme looking set to be in large numbers, the expectations may have been set too high. Speaking to the BBC, Nigeria's education minister, Dr Igwe Aja-Nwachuku said "What is the essence of introducing One Laptop per Child when they don't have seats to sit down and learn; when they don't have uniforms to go to school in, where they don't have facilities?"
"We are more interested in laying a very solid foundation for quality education which will be efficient, effective, accessible and affordable."
Nigeria, who were previously set to purchase one million OLPCs now appear to be re-thinking the scheme. Walter Bender of OLPC insists politicians aren't doing enough, claiming "You've got to be big, you've got to be bold. And what has happened is that there has been an effort to say 'don't take any risks - just do something small, something incremental'."
"It feels safe but by definition what you are ensuring is that nothing happens."
In the US and Canada, the "Give One, Get One" scheme which offers buyers the chance to "donate the revolutionary XO laptop to a child in a developing nation, and also receive one for the child in your life in recognition of your contribution" has been extended through to December 31st having so far proven popular.
Further reading
Source: BBC - Politicians 'stifling' $100 laptop
Official OLPC website
Give One, Get One
