| EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The infrastructure commission from WITFOR 2003 stated that a valuable link exists between the power of ICT (Information and Communications Technology) and the right that people should enjoy under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is well recognised worldwide that we are living in an information age and that the power of ICT promises to play an important role in improving human welfare throughout the world.
Three dominant themes define the scope of ICT: Connectivity, Capacity and Content. Connectivity refers to the underlying infrastructure that allows the linkage and continuity of information flow around the globe. Capacity deals with the efficient and effective use of the technologies and Content allows for the information and knowledge that constitute the information age and society.
Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in ICT as it provides a foundation for other technology and applications thereof. It is important to recognise that infrastructure is not limited to technology only, but embraces the other areas of services, human resources, legal & regulatory framework and economy. It is against this backdrop that we highlight the role and importance of infrastructure for accelerated development.
The WSIS plan of action calls for three important actions from an infrastructure perspective, namely support, connectivity and infrastructure. Support required an enabling and competitive environment for the necessary investment in ICT infrastructure. Connectivity refers to the provision and improvement of the connectivity for all education institutions and public access. Infrastructure calls for the development of a strengthened national, regional and international broadband network infrastructure.
WITFOR 2005 places importance on transforming the themes into tangible real undertakings, hence the focus of the infrastructure commission on a case study, an implementable project and a follow-on research proposal that may be implemented at national level of through a regional or international partnership. The case study, ATHENA, is an R&D project funded by the European Commission and proposes the proper actions to be taken concerning the digital switchover in UHF to address the issue of broadband for all. The implementable project, GramPatra, is a product of Media Lab Asia for delivery of value added digital services at places which do not have online internet connectivity. This project specifically addresses the quest for the last mile infrastructure in developing countries. The research proposal focuses on Power Line Communications (PLC) and articulates the applicability of this technology in developing countries.
The infrastructure commission examines the above undertakings with a view on their value-add towards the goal of ICT for accelerated development. The recommendations and next steps are captured within the Gaborone Protocol.
To read the complete document on BIC Report download the BIC Report 2005/2006 (PDF 1.14 MB).
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Themes
