Project Leader: Denis F. Villorente
Recipient Institution: Advance Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), Philippines
Amount: USD 8,925
Duration: 6 Months
Commencement Date: 2006

Project Abstract

Information and communication have become vital tools for individuals and communities to gather and share information and maximize their potentials. A convenient and efficient means to access knowledge and information for marginalized sectors of society can be an effective means for them to act on the root causes of their inability to stay competitive in today's information age.

Using wireless technologies as last mile solution enables communities low cost connectivity. Another benefit is the low cost and availability of components and equipments. Wireless technology also has an added benefit of a larger capacity for
broad bandwidth that is not impeded by traditional cable capacities. With such bandwidth, additional services not normally accessed in conventional technologies such as broadband Internet access, videoconferencing, etc. is inherently available.

The digital divide is causing a disparities in the new opportunities that are created and serves to constrain the possible means of marginalized sectors and the rural poor to lift themselves from poverty and inequality. If the demand for ICT services were met for rural marginalized communities immeasurable benefit can be had. With the proper ICT services in place a member of that community, let say a farmer can gather all the necessary information he needs to stay competitive.

One of the most important application of ICT is in disaster prevention and mitigation. The aftermath of disasters such as the one that occurred in South Asia could have not been so grave if an efficient means of information distribution was available to affected rural communities.