SRI LANKA: USAID INTERNET-RELATED INITIATIVES

UNCLAS COLOMBO 001514 SIPDIS SIPDIS STATE FOR NICOLAS FETCHKO, EB/CIP/BA STATE PASS USAID MCC FOR S GROFF, D NASSIRY AND E BURKE E.O 12958: N/A TAGS: ECPS EINT EAID PHUM CE SUBJECT: SRI LANKA: USAID INTERNET-RELATED INITIATIVES REF: STATE 142147 ¶1. Below is a brief summary of Internet-related USAID programs related to the Internet, as requested reftel: Project Name: Sri Lanka Peace Support Project Recipient: Info-Share Project Description: Using information and communication technology to increase information exchange and collaboration between stakeholders engaged in peace building and conflict resolution programs in Sri Lanka. IT Component: Info-Share links civil society organizations implementing conflict resolution programs through information networks to increase the dissemination of program information, technical resources and survey data. Info-Share has launched a virtual peace library - www.peacelibrary.org and an on-line program event calendar providing an opportunity for civil society organizations to coordinate and publicize their program activities. They are supporting other USAID programs, recently completing an information and communication needs assessment for the assessment the Sri Lanka Auditor General's Department an integral component of the Sri Lanka Anti Corruption Program. FY 05 Funding: U.S. $147,870.00 FY 06 Funding: U.S. $110,788.00 Project Name: Last Mile Initiative Recipient: Information and Communications Technology Agency of the Government of Sri Lanka Project Description: Providing Internet access to underserved areas island-wide. IT Component: Funding the establishment of connectivity in commercially-based computer centers in underserved areas, including piloting the use of new technology solutions (Directional WIFI, WIMAX, Satellite) to determine feasibility and sustainability. FY 05 Funding: U.S. $0 FY 06 Funding: U.S. $400,000.00 Project Name: English - Computer-Based Learning Recipient: DynEd, Inc. Project Description: Piloting the use of computer-based English language instruction in eight centers throughout Sri Lanka in private and public sector teaching facilities. IT Component: Provision of instructional English software, teacher training, and in some cases computers, servers and related Internet connections. FY 05 Funding: U.S. $0 FY 06 Funding: U.S. $370,000 BLAKE