Internet has acquired the status of a basic need for survival today. A day without internet connectivity is beyond imagination. But, the harsh reality is that there still exit many unconnected pockets in the world. Providing internet access to such impoverished areas will go a long way in improving the quality of life.
The good news is that the multinational technology giants like Facebook and Google have come together to make the internet accessible for people in the remotest parts of the world. Computer software giant Microsoft has begun work on the same.
Microsoft’s approach, contrary to others, is bottom-up. While Google and Facebook are investing dollars to extend internet access through a network of satellites, drones and high-altitude balloons; Microsoft has induced internet empowerment in local entrepreneurs and small businessmen who already work in the software and related services in Africa, India and rural Maine. Grants averaging about $75,000 in cash and free software are tailored to suit ground realities to achieve targeted and immediate impact.
“Local entrepreneurs stand a better chance of understanding local needs, and have the expertise to create new technologies and business models to meet those needs, taking into account local market conditions,” said Paul Garnett, Director of Microsoft’s Affordable Access Initiative.
Microsoft has already announced 12 grants to small firms around the world in countries like Maine, Rwanda, India, Philippines and Argentina.
Garnett has also revealed that Microsoft has set a goal of supporting “at least 20 projects in at least 15 countries by 2017”. The company is also pursuing other partnerships to promote education and technology in Africa, along with the use of TV “white space,” or unused broadcast channels, for internet access.
News Source: Indian Express
Image Source: Medialabs.in
