1 April 2011
Monash University's Associate Professor Julie Fisher has taken part in a UNICEF mission to Kiribati to determine the current state of information and communications technologies and identify what technology could assist promote social inclusion and gender equity.
Kiribati is located just north of the Equator and east of Papua New Guinea. It comprises 32 coral atolls spread across thousands of kilometres.
During the assessment of the current information and communications technologies and in developing future needs, extensive consultations were held with a number of individuals and groups involved in telecommunications, IT and education, as well as the World Health Organisation. Two focus groups with local members of the community were also held.
Monash University's Associate Professor Julie Fisher who is the Associate Dean, Research for the Faculty of Information Technology said the environment across Kiribati is very harsh and the need for improved information and communications technology (ICT) was evident.
"The quality and availability of ICT varies significantly across Kiribati," Associate Professor Fisher said.
"Satellite dishes are the only means by which the internet can be connected and this is very expensive. Most of Kiribati does not have internet connectivity or mobile phone coverage. In many places the only source of power is solar.
"There is a pressing need for improved infrastructure in Kiribati and an awareness amongst the population of what the internet can offer.
"For some it is about access to information on a range of issues and for others it is the opportunity to have contact with those overseas either on shipping vessels or living abroad," Associate Professor Fisher said.
Associate Professor Fisher said there is significant awareness within the community about what computers and the Internet can provide.
"In the areas of health and education it is clear that access to technology is critical. For example, schools often struggle to provide the basics of education and health provision and information on the outer islands is minimal," Associate Professor Fisher said.
A key outcome of the mission is the recommendation for future collaboration on development and sustainability of ICT in Kiribati between Monash University and UNICEF.
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