An Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) report sponsored by Ericsson has found that nations with low broadband connectivity have the potential to realise an increase in GDP by up to 20% by connecting schools to the Internet.
A well-educated workforce is more likely to be innovative and foster groundbreaking ideas, leading to economic development and job creation. EIU analysis shows that for every 10% increase in school connectivity in a country, GDP per capita could increase by 1.1%.
In the context of the West African country of Niger, the report finds that improvements in school connectivity to Finnish levels could increase GDP per capita by almost 20% – from US$550 per person in the baseline, to US$660 per person by 2025.
The report focuses on four key actions to make a change:
Collaboration is key: A holistic, public/private partnership strategy is needed to coordinate efforts with stakeholders to overcome barriers to school connectivity.
Accessibility and affordability: Building infrastructure to enable access to the internet is a starting point. Quality of connection and cost are important factors as well.
Embedding Internet and digital tools into education: Once access to school connectivity is achieved, it must be embedded into the curriculum. Teachers must be trained to integrate technology into everyday learning.
Protecting children online: School connectivity provides opportunities for children. Additional steps must be taken to ensure healthy and protected online learning environments. Internet usage must be properly managed to ensure safe and secure use.
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