Digital divide

ProFuturo and American Tower expand digital education initiatives to Nigeria

ProFuturo and American Tower are expanding their digital education initiative to Nigeria, building on the success of a program initially launched in Kenya. The expansion aims to provide nearly 30,000 students in vulnerable communities across Africa and Latin America access to digital learning opportunities, addressing significant educational inequalities.

Central to this initiative is the training and empowerment of over 1,000 teachers, who will receive essential digital resources and innovative teaching methods to integrate technology into their classrooms effectively. By equipping educators with these tools, the collaboration seeks to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that underserved regions have access to the same educational resources as urban areas.

The partnership aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in promoting quality education and reducing inequalities while also aiming to reduce poverty and inequality within local communities. Additionally, American Tower’s Digital Communities initiative will establish technology-driven spaces that promote digital literacy, vocational training, and healthcare access, serving as vital hubs for learning and development.

Looking ahead to 2030, the partnership aspires to create lasting change, ensuring that all children can succeed in the digital economy and laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape in Nigeria and beyond.

Nigeria to offer free internet in public places

The House of Representatives has introduced a significant bill to provide free internet services in selected public places throughout Nigeria. The initiative highlights the critical role of information and communications technology (ICT) in nation-building and seeks to bridge the digital divide by enhancing connectivity in essential sectors like education and healthcare.

The proposed law outlines various locations eligible for free internet access, including government offices, secondary and tertiary institutions, public hospitals, military barracks, libraries, parks, and transport terminals. Users will not be charged for connecting to these public internet access points, separate from backend services used in government operations. To ensure quality, the bill mandates a minimum internet speed of two megabytes per second per user, aligning with the National Broadband Plan.

To facilitate the effective implementation of the bill, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will oversee the rollout and set standards for public locations included in the initiative. They are required to develop a comprehensive implementation plan within one year of the law’s commencement, collaborating with federal, state, and local governments, as well as private sector entities.

The legislation encourages public-private partnerships to enhance service delivery, allowing private partners to offer supplemental internet services for a fee. Additionally, it promotes cost reduction by encouraging private service providers to exchange data tariffs through designated domestic internet protocol exchanges, ultimately improving access for users in areas where the programme is implemented.

Microsoft boosts AI, cloud investments in Italy with $4.8 billion plan

Microsoft has announced plans to invest €4.3 billion over the next two years to expand its artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure in northern Italy. The tech giant’s investment will establish the ItalyNorth cloud region as one of Microsoft’s largest data hubs in Europe, serving both the Mediterranean and North Africa. The move marks Microsoft’s largest-ever investment in Italy and is expected to significantly strengthen the country’s digital presence in the region.

Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President, Brad Smith, discussed the investment with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who welcomed the project, seeing it as a key development for Italy’s role in the Mediterranean’s digital landscape. This initiative follows broader discussions between the Italian government and global investors, including BlackRock, which is also looking at potential investments in data and energy infrastructure.

The surge in demand for AI and cloud services across industries, from gaming to e-commerce, is driving Microsoft’s global expansion efforts. In partnership with BlackRock, Microsoft had already launched a $30 billion fund aimed at AI-focused data centers and related infrastructure, initially targeting the U.S. and its partner countries.

Philippines to enhance connectivity through PPPs

The Philippines is actively pursuing public-private partnerships (PPPs) to enhance connectivity for millions of Filipinos in remote areas. Globe Telecom, along with other industry players, is leading efforts to construct new cell towers, with the initial phase focused on building 1,500 towers across major telecommunications providers like Globe, Smart Communications, and DITO Telecommunity.

That initiative highlights the country’s commitment to improving digital connectivity. Globe’s CEO, Ernest Cu, emphasises the importance of collaboration between the telecommunications industry and the government to tackle infrastructure challenges. Consequently, investments in network infrastructure are expected to boost access to digital services and create economic opportunities.

To facilitate the project, the task force has called for legislative reforms to simplify the permit process and ensure a stable power supply for cell towers. Nevertheless, with over 26% of Filipinos still offline as of early 2024, there is an urgent need to bridge the digital divide and foster a more inclusive digital economy.

FCC to allocate spectrum for enhanced broadband access across the US

The FCC has made a pivotal move to enhance broadband services across the United States by allocating additional spectrum in the 17.3-17.7 GHz band to non-geostationary satellite operators (NGSO), including notable providers like Starlink. The decision is designed to improve broadband speeds and increase accessibility, particularly for fixed-satellite services (FSS) directed toward stationary points on Earth, such as residential antennas.

Importantly, NGSO operators will share this newly allocated 1,300 megahertz of spectrum with geostationary satellite (GEO) operators. However, they must adhere to strict power limits and conditions to minimise interference.

Moreover, the FCC has emphasised that this spectrum allocation is part of a broader strategy to promote spectrum efficiency, stimulate competition, and expand high-speed internet access, especially in underserved and unserved communities. Consequently, this initiative seeks to drive innovation and facilitate deploying advanced services in areas lacking robust traditional internet infrastructure, effectively bridging the digital divide.

In response to concerns raised by geostationary satellite operators like EchoStar and DirectTV, who argued that NGSO operators should only have secondary access to prevent potential interference, the FCC determined that both NGSO and GEO operators would share the 17 GHz spectrum on a co-primary basis. However, it is worth noting that NGSO downlinks in the 17.7-17.8 GHz band will be afforded different interference protection from terrestrial services.

Kajeet and Mission Telecom partner to enhance digital inclusion for underserved communities

Kajeet, a leading provider of managed IoT connectivity solutions, and Mission Telecom, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing affordable and reliable broadband and investing in a movement of systemic change, collaborate to deliver transformative connectivity solutions that empower underserved communities nationwide. By harnessing the innovative capabilities of Kajeet’s Sentinel platform alongside Mission Telecom’s unlimited broadband access services, the partnership aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that essential internet access reaches those who need it most.

Furthermore, Kajeet will soon equip Mission Telecom with mobile device management, policy enforcement, wireless data usage control, network security, and advanced analytics. As a result, this will enable increased access to educational resources, job-seeking tools, and opportunities for economic growth, ultimately enhancing the vital services provided to nonprofits, libraries, and academic institutions.

In addition to improving connectivity, Kajeet and Mission Telecom collaborate to enrich educational opportunities for individuals and families. By delivering reliable internet access, they seek to provide essential learning and personal development tools, including online educational resources and job-seeking platforms. Moreover, Kajeet’s advanced mobile device management and analytics capabilities will empower Mission Telecom to foster a supportive environment for students and learners, equipping them for success in today’s digital landscape.

Furthermore, Kajeet and Mission Telecom collaborate to champion equitable access to broadband services, promoting digital inclusion across communities. That partnership embodies a shared vision for a more inclusive society where technology catalyses positive change. By addressing systemic challenges and leveraging their combined strengths, they are dedicated to cultivating a culture of empowerment through connectivity, ensuring everyone can thrive in the digital economy.

The British High Commission to strengthen digital communities in Kenya

The British High Commission in Kenya has announced a significant funding allocation of Sh390 million for the ‘Strengthening Digital Communities’ project, which will be implemented in Busia and Mandera counties. The initiative is designed to close the digital divide by improving access to digital skills and technology for marginalised groups, including women, youth, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

By investing in digital inclusion, the project aims to empower these communities and enhance their overall quality of life. Furthermore, with plans to reach over 190,000 individuals, the British High Commission supports Kenya’s ambitious goal of achieving 20 million digitally literate citizens by 2027.

To ensure the project’s success, the British High Commission collaborates with KICTANet and several local institutions, including the National Council of Persons with Disabilities and the Kenya Society for the Blind. That partnership reflects a shared commitment to fostering inclusivity and tackling the challenges faced by underserved populations in these counties.

By harnessing the strengths of these organisations, the initiative aims to cultivate a supportive environment that promotes digital literacy and access to technology. In addition, recognising digital employability as a crucial aspect of this effort, the project will provide training, mentorship, and resources to help young women and youth secure meaningful employment opportunities.

Moreover, community engagement campaigns will focus on raising awareness about cyber hygiene, digital safety, and the advantages of digital inclusion, ensuring that all community members have the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely.

India’s comprehensive strategy to revolutionise telecommunications and foster inclusive growth

The Indian government has made connectivity a cornerstone of its vision for a digitally empowered nation. The government is bridging the digital divide through comprehensive initiatives to expand 4G and 5G coverage, ensuring that even the most remote villages benefit from reliable mobile connectivity.

In fact, with the commissioning of over 7,100 new 4G towers, access to essential services and opportunities is being facilitated for all citizens, thereby fostering inclusive growth across the country. Moreover, the launch of the Bharat 6G Vision underscores the government’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in telecommunications technology, with a goal for India to be at the forefront of designing, developing, and deploying 6G technology by 2030.

In addition, significant investments are being directed towards economic growth through various support initiatives, including the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. That initiative not only aims to bolster domestic manufacturing and create jobs but also seeks to attract foreign investments in the telecom sector. By implementing reimbursement schemes for startups and micro-enterprises, the government is easing financial burdens and cultivating an environment ripe for innovation and entrepreneurship. Consequently, these efforts seek to enhance the telecommunications landscape and contribute significantly to the nation’s overall economic development.

Furthermore, the Indian government is committed to modernising its regulatory framework for telecommunications, as demonstrated by the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 2023. The new legislation effectively replaces outdated laws and incorporates robust national security and public safety provisions.

Additionally, the establishment of a Digital Intelligence Platform aims to enhance cybersecurity and enable real-time information sharing among law enforcement and financial institutions, thereby ensuring a safer telecommunications environment. For example, initiatives such as the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ app further illustrate the government’s dedication to promoting environmental sustainability. This app encourages citizens to plant trees honouring their mothers while raising awareness about environmental issues, seamlessly integrating technological advancement with social responsibility.

Vodafone and Intelsat to enhance remote satellite connectivity

Vodafone and Intelsat have strengthened their partnership to enhance satellite connectivity solutions for organisations operating in challenging environments, especially in remote areas and disaster zones. This collaboration aims to provide reliable and secure connectivity options that empower businesses, governments, and charitable organisations to track valuable cargo efficiently, establish rapid communication during emergencies, and support various critical applications.

By integrating Intelsat’s Flex portfolio into Vodafone’s offerings, the partnership will deliver two key services – Communications-on-the-Move (COTM), which employs a vehicle-mounted antenna for seamless connectivity, and Communications-on-the-Pause (COTP), a compact satellite terminal designed for temporary sites. Moreover, that partnership seeks to bolster humanitarian efforts, mainly through the Vodafone Foundation’s initiatives focused on health and education across Europe and Africa.

These efforts will provide essential connectivity for NGOs and government agencies responding to environmental and humanitarian crises. Additionally, this collaboration complements Vodafone’s existing work in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology, which includes direct-to-smartphone connectivity and has already facilitated high-speed mobile broadband services in Papua New Guinea.

Intelsat’s commitment to enhancing connectivity in underserved regions exemplifies its partnership with CNH Industrial for precision agriculture in Brazil, further showcasing its dedication to providing internet access in rural areas. Vodafone and Intelsat leaders, including CEO Marika Auramo and Jean Philippe Gillet, highlight the vital role of reliable connectivity in community welfare and resilience. This partnership aims to enhance connectivity solutions and address urgent needs during emergencies, significantly impacting communities worldwide.

Quad leaders set principles for Digital Public Infrastructure

The Quad leaders, comprising the United States, India, Japan, and Australia, outlined principles to guide the development and deployment of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) during their 6th Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware. Recognising the transformative power of digital technologies, they emphasised the need for DPI to foster inclusivity, ensure security, and promote scalability while respecting privacy and human rights.

The principles aim to provide a blueprint for governments and private sectors to collaborate on creating secure, interoperable digital systems. These systems would offer equitable access, support public service delivery, and drive sustainable development by addressing key challenges such as digital divides, privacy concerns, and cybersecurity risks. They focus on creating an inclusive, safe, and transparent digital ecosystem that can adapt to evolving demands, especially in pursuit of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Among the core principles are:

Inclusivity: Governments should strive to close digital divides by eliminating barriers that hinder access and ensuring no erroneous biases are embedded in digital systems.

Interoperability: DPI should be based on open standards that ensure compatibility across systems, balancing legal and technical requirements.

Scalability: Infrastructure should be designed to accommodate growing demand without significant disruptions.

Security and Privacy: DPI must integrate privacy-enhancing technologies and cybersecurity features to protect users’ data and ensure system resilience.

Collaboration: A culture of openness is encouraged by involving community actors and innovators throughout the DPI’s lifecycle.

Human Rights and Governance: DPI must respect human rights and be governed transparently to maximise public trust and benefit.

Sustainability: DPI should be built with sustainability in mind, ensuring long-term financial and technological viability.

These principles highlight the Quad’s commitment to ensuring that digitalisation leads to equitable, reliable, and sustainable outcomes for societies, strongly emphasising maintaining democratic values and human rights.