During November 17-19, 2004, MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) organised an expert meeting engaging development practitioners and policy makers in Chennai, India, to review experiences in Asia and Africa in the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for poverty reduction. The Workshop concluded that ICTs can make a difference in poverty reduction. The lessons learned around the globe demonstrate the great potential of ICTs enhancing empowerment, opportunity and security.
Nevertheless, it is important to recognise the need to mainstream in development interventions as emulated in the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) and Poverty Reduction Strategies (PRS). At the grassroots level, the capacity of community structures should be built upon and enhanced. The basic requirements for successful up-scaling of poverty reduction through ICTs are (1) an enabling ICT policy environment; (2) conducive conditions for poverty reduction; (3) appropriate technology choices; (4) mobilisation of additional public and private resources.
An enabling ICT policy environment includes respect for freedom of expression, diversity and the free flow of information, competition in ICT infrastructure provision, also in the last mile, investment in service development including local content, and the adoption of open source solutions.
Technological progress reduces costs dramatically and lowers access barriers. Choosing simple, context-related solutions that may not require high connectivity or high-level human capacity is key. Combinations of complementary technologies, such as radio and Internet, have often proved particularly appropriate.
Source:Chennai Statement
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