850 schools connected to the internet

Sunday, 14 October 2012 19:37

Written by WILBER MUHWEZI

  

The Uganda Communications Commission executive director, Godfrey Mutabazi, told a gathering of civil society organizations at Bundibugyo boma grounds recently that Uganda is so far the best in implementing the rural communication development programme.

The country has provided computers and internet connectivity to 850 schools in Uganda. In contrast, Rwanda has only connected 30 schools.

“Don’t talk of Ghana, South Africa or any of such countries; we are the best in rural communication programme implementation in Africa,” Mutabazi said

Mutabazi added that 90% of the country has mobile telephone network with 1,016 sub-counties connected. He noted that his department contributes 6.5% of growth domestic product per year and this makes his department the highest contributor to the country’s economy.

He encouraged the district staff, leaders and the general public to learn how to use computers lest they are left behind.

“If you don’t learn how to use a computer, then you will remain behind. Please wake up and take up the challenge.”

Mutabazi commissioned an ICT centre in Bundibugyo which was equipped with five computers, a three-in-one scanner, printer and a photocopier plus three GB data of bandwidth by Orange. The internet is free to the public and the local government staff.

The executive director of Rwenzori Information Centres Network (RIC-NET), John Silco, told Mutabazi that the centre would be supported for two years after which the district would take over.

wmuhwezi@yahoo.com

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