-Minister Hughes urges residents to use it to better themselves

THE island of Leguan in the Essequibo River is the latest rural community to be included in the Ministry of Public Telecommunications’ drive to ensure that Guyanese have access to free internet through Information Communication and Technology (ICT) hubs.
Residents of the community, especially children, were excited to utilise the 15 computers that were installed in a room at the Leguan Community Centre. The beneficiaries from Leguan joined thousands of other Guyanese who now have free access to internet and a computer through 110 ICT hubs that were established around the country.
“We recognise in today’s world access to the internet can help all members of the community …we have developed ICT hubs at regional offices, post offices and even community centres across the country to give the citizens free internet access”, said Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes at the launch of the hub at the

community centre on Wednesday.

Hughes said the ministry’s aim is based on President David Granger’s vision of ensuring that every citizen has access to free internet.

The ministry through the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) has been working to make the President’s vision a reality, she said, adding that once installed, the hubs will allow persons to develop and educate themselves through information and technology.
“For instance, students writing the grade six exams, those doing SBAs, research and even homework would be able to do so at the ICT hubs in their communities,” said the minister.
In addition, Hughes pointed out that owners of small businesses, craftsmen/women and even farmers could use the hubs to market their products/produce and even find new local and even international markets.

The possibilities would be endless because persons would be able to connect with friends, families and even business associates through social media apps and so forth.
Residents of Leguan had already noted the possibilities and were excited to use the devices. Youth, Culture and Sports Officer of Leguan, Harry Gobin, expressed his gratitude to the ministry and promised that residents will care the equipment and utilise them properly.

Like the residents of Leguan, other communities have welcomed the initiative, said the minister adding that they have been implementing hubs at a fast rate.
“The beauty is that we are committed to putting it all across Guyana but it could not be done without cooperation from the residents and regional officers in the various communities,” she said.

Other ministries have also been key stakeholders, said Hughes, noting that the Ministry of Education has been involved in mapping out the areas of training related to the ICT hubs and the Ministry of Communities has been asked to subsidise the cost of electricity for the hubs.

Director of the NDMA, Phillip Walcott also said they will soon start an aggressive training programme because in addition to having the devices and services, persons need the knowledge.
“We have got all the people in training… we have already gathered trainers, so we are working on that. We will also get assistance from the ministry to train persons at a higher level,” he explained.