Rodrigues will soon have its first science and technology park

Rodrigues will soon have its first science and technology park. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has identified several buildings on the island that can host the first technology park to accommodate future outsourcing companies.

During the joint mission of a delegation from the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA) and representatives from the ICT Ministry last week in Rodrigues, several decisions were taken to develop Rodrigues into a modern island. Internet connection speed will be increased.

While it is currently at 8 Mbps, it will initially be increased to 10 Mbps before raising it to 12 Mbps to improve connectivity.

The ministry is also working on different options to connect Rodrigues by satellite or cable depending on the means available.

The improvement and democratisation of the Internet and the implementation of a branch of the ICT Academy will allow Rodrigues to get into the outsourcing industry.

Since international connectivity is slow on the island, offline activities will be encouraged. IC3 courses, an ICT education programme offered by the National Computer Board are also in the pipeline for Rodrigues.

Fifteen villages have been identified and will have access to free WiFi.

The ICT ministry will also organise a forum with stakeholders and potential investors to showcase development potential in Rodrigues.

Government will also set up computer clubs throughout the island and a job fair is also planned. All initiatives will be undertaken in consultation with the Rodrigues Regional Assembly and minister of Fisheries and Rodrigues.