Physically and visually and challenged individuals are set to receive direct benefits from the deployment of new technologies in a number of schools and institutions. The announcement came today from the Hon. Dr. Edmond Mansoor, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Information Technology, Broadcasting and Telecommunications.

Speaking at a media briefing today, ahead of the observance of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day on Thursday, Minister Mansoor says that the Government recognizes the special requirements of persons with disabilities.

"Persons with disabilities will not be left behind in the ICT revolution currently underway. As Antigua and Barbuda observes this day on Thursday under the theme: "Connecting Persons with Disabilities: ICT Opportunities", the Ministry is ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital age. No one should be denied the potential benefits of new technologies," Minister Mansoor declared.

Under the Connect Antigua and Barbuda Initiative, a multi-component programme that represents Government's commitment to making substantial investments in equipping citizens and residents with ICT skills, schools and facilities that provide services to persons with disabilities will be equipped with high speed computers and printers, access to broadband technology as well as specialized software.

Beginning on Wednesday, the Adele School as well as the Center for the Visually Challenged at the T N Kirnon School will begin receiving new technologies under the "Technology for the Physically & Visually Challenged" component of the Connect Antigua and Barbuda Initiative.

According to Minister Mansoor, the School for the Blind, the School for the Hearing Impaired as well as the Antigua and Barbuda Association of Persons with Disabilities will benefit from this initiative.

Over $150,000 has been earmarked for the deployment of new technologies in these and similar facilities.