ICT have to be accessible to all in Mauritius

The information and communication technology sector according to the latest CSO report climbed from fifth place to clinch the third spot.

This was stated by the minister of Information and Communication Technology Tassarajen Pillay, at the launch of the second ICT Expo 2011 on Saturday at the Rivière du Rempart Youth Centre.

The show was an opportunity for the people of the region to discover the latest computer technology showcased by exhibitors, which had become an indispensable tool for many.

The minister announced his aim to turn ICT into the main pillar of the economy. Pillay added his ministry chose to regionalise Infotech which was in-line with the government‘s action plan and the philosophy of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam of putting people first when it comes to development.

He expressed his gratitude to the exhibitors and stressed that the job fair also offered the opportunity to the people the opportunity to register for jobs available in the ICT sector.

The minister also announced that there will soon be four computer clubs in the region to make information technology more accessible, to housewives, the elderly, differently-abled and poor. He also spoke on the IC3 course and announced that it would soon be free for the elderly and differently-abled. He requested senior citizens to take those courses.

He also announced the change of the ID card next year which would be state of the art.

The minister also mentioned the WiFi revolution for which antennas will be installed to allow people to connect to internet in public areas. Provisions will also be made to set up computers for people who do not have the facility in hot spots.

The president of the National Computer Board (NCB), Suraj Ramgoolam welcomed the commitment and vision of the minister to bring computer technology to the people. He mentioned the benefits of Internet and said that it was a source of knowledge that allowed people who use it to enrich themselves.