This section features background information and resources relevant to the current research theme. It includes resources produced by WDR and external sources and is organised by regions and topics. An archive of resources recommended in previous research cycles is also available along with news from the WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News Service.
Brazil: US$ 115 million required to provide broadband for schools Print E-mail
Wednesday, 07 November 2007

Brazil's Communications Minister Helio Costa says a plan to extend broadband service to schools would cost US$ 115 million.

The government expects to deploy 208,000 internet access points, including 143,000 at schools, health centres and police stations. Some schools already have broadband service through other universal access projects such as Gesac, which uses VSAT to offer broadband at 3,450 locations. Costa said the project could be expanded to create a national network for sectors other than education. The government intends to begin the expansion in January 2008, using funds from FUST, the universal access fund, the ministry or the private sector.

In related developments, fixed line operators are required to deploy service in less profitable regions, for entire communities rather than schools. On November 6, Anatel, the telecommunications regulator, approved a change in these obligations, eliminating the requirement to install public telecommunications services and creating a requirement to install backhaul infrastructure for broadband service in municipalities currently lacking capacity. The goal is to provide broadband to 3,570 additional municipalities by 2010. The previous plan required operators to install 8,461 access points.

Source: Business News Americas - WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News.