I know what most of you are thinking right now, and no it’s not the Apache helicopter. The “Apache” software foundation (ASF) is non-profit organization that has a community of software developers that develop free and open source software.
The ASF started exactly 10 years ago with a group of 8 members and started the very first open source project under the foundation, the Apache HTTP Web Server. In its 10 years, ASF has become a great example of the power of open source development and the group, now with 65 projects operating under its banner, shows no signs of slowing down. The Apache HTTP Web Server now runs in more than 65 % of the Internet becoming the most popular web server available today.
Developers from all over the world contribute to the Apache community which includes developers from companies, educational institutes and even government agencies. This is due to the fact that Apache represents the cutting edge of innovative software development and attracts passionate developers who crave that level of technical challenge.
US has by far the largest contribution of developers in Apache and I’m proud to say that Sri Lanka has the second largest contribution. Primarily driven by local universities, and software companies Sri Lanka has gained international recognition for the contribution of new software that is used all over the world.
Non profit organizations such as the Lanka Software Foundation strives to build a Sri Lankan brand in the software industry through the use of free and open source software that enables to compete and contribute at the same level as any other country in the world. The Apache Software Foundation, provides the credibility and the legal framework to recognize the contribution and the efforts that is put in to such work.
Because we have such prominence, Sri Lanka was able to host the first ever Apachecon Asia conference back in 2006. Apachecon is a conference that is held around the world to bring together Apache community members and also to share knowledge on the number of Apache software is been developed. It truly was an honor for Sri Lanka to host the Asia counterpart of this conference.
Apache can provide the perfect start to anyone who is interested in becoming a good developer. It provides the environment for you to learn and experience how real software is designed and built in rapid pace. Also it has a ton of wealth that is freely available and if you work hard enough, the reward is world class recognition. The best part is, its free and you wont have to pay a single cent to get it !
Sri Lanka is once again hosting an Apache conference titled “Apache Asia Roadshow 2009” this coming December. The conference will feature a list of international and local speakers and will include a one-day hackathon by the beach ! Look out for paper advertisements and brochures.
To learn more about the Apache Software Foundation, visit their web site at http://www.apache.org. |
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