Improve ICT to benefit majority


I REFER to the report “Tammur set to deliver new TV station” (Sept 18). The MP for Kokopo is looking at establishing a state-owned television service for the people of Papua New Guinea as one of his goals.
This is a brilliant idea. However, how will this contribute to the nation if the ordinary citizens of this country at present are calling out for basic information and communication services to be improved?
Why not improve and introduce information and communications technology (ICT) in Papua New Guinea to everyone instead of benefiting only a minority?
Why can’t the two ministers work together to address this great divide rather than focusing on something that does not bring development or benefit for our community?
Our economic and standard of living will improve if the people have access to this type of services and it is more sustainable to development.
The facts are when people have access to information infrastructure that enables them to access information and communication by using the available services such as data, image or video and voice anywhere, the country will excel further.
Some examples arising from these technologies are;
*Farmers can communicate directly with buyers:
*Farmers will learn more about needs, current market and future of their products such as cocoa and coffee, among others;
*Students will enhance research skills for their assignments;
*Students can take part in online discussions and other things;
*Graduates from universities and national high schools are able to market their skills for employment opportunities in countries where labour shortage are in demand;
*Doctors in rural areas will communicate better with colleagues in urban areas in terms of emergencies; and
*Overall, citizens will acquire skills, knowledge and ideas.
These are some of the many useful things where ICT will benefit the nation.

ToPaulias
Swinburne
University
Victoria, Australia