The WikiConference India 2011 is the first conference of its kind being held in India and is intended to become an annual national flagship event for Wikipedia/Wikimedia in the country. It is meant to provide a common platform for all Indian Wikimedians to meet and share their views, discuss challenges and exchange useful tips, best practices and other information.
Great! Where is it happening and when?
The first edition is in Mumbai at the Convocation Hall, University of Mumbai (Fort Campus) & associated rooms. It runs from November 18 (Friday) to November 20 (Sunday)
The Conference is open to participation from all nations, however, the Conference will have a very distinct Indian flavour and deal primarily with issues relating to India on Wikipedia, English and Indic language Wikipedia projects in the country, possible partnerships and collaborations and the Wiki-community editing on these issues, whether in India or abroad.
That sounds fantastic. Is there more?
Yes! There will be 2 Keynote addresses, one by Wikipedia Founder Jimmy Wales and another by a well known local public figure (Indian). Apart from the above there will be a few notable speakers from outside Wikipedia. Tracks for the conference will be based on the following themes: Community, Technology, Knowledge and Outreach. Apart from General Speakers we are planning Panel discussions and Q&A sessions, Editathons and Lightning Talks among other things.
Would I get a certificate?
No, we feel conference like this is for exchanging thoughts and contributing to a phenomenal movement like Wikimedia and not for boasting in resumes. However if you want, we can arrange a letter which confirms your attendence which might be required by authorites in your college / organization
But is there a party?
Of course there will be an Attendee Party!
Anything else?
Well, we are also trying to organise open top bus tours of the city and heritage walks too!
Sounds great! How much does it cost and where do I sign up?
Early bird registration is Rs. 750 (+INR 25 processing fee) and is for the first 400 attendees only (10% discount on Early bird Registration for Wikimedia Chapter members). Post that, it is Rs. 1500 (+ INR 50 processing fee) till we fill all 700 slots. For institutions its INR 5000 for 2 representatives (+ INR 170 processing fee). You can sign up and pay online here: [1]
What benefit does institutional registration carry?
Institutional registration means you can have 2 persons officially representing your organisation at the event. Further, there would be preferential seating given to institutional representatives in the 2nd or 3rd row from the front of the hall. Anyone wanting to speak or conduct anything on behalf of an organisation would need to be registered as an institution.
