Spanish government takes action to bring information society to its citizens
An agreement has been signed by the Spanish Minister of science and technology, Ana Birulés and Spanish broadcasting company RTVE to publicise a new campaign aimed at increasing the use of the Internet in Spain. RTVE (Spanish radio and television) will become a key player in disseminating information concerning the ministry's 'Internet for all' campaign, which was launched on 16 May. The campaign gives those who need training on the use of the Internet a 15 hour course for 15 euro. According to Ms Birulés, the programme is aimed at 'citizens from all social and geographical groups.' Particular efforts are being made to ensure that groups which could be particularly vulnerable to 'digital illiteracy,' such as the old, immigrants, handicapped people and those who live in some rural areas, are catered for. The objective of the programme is to ensure that those who take the course not only understand the Internet, but also incorporate it into their daily lives. Those who successfully complete the course will be given a card to show their 'Internet credentials.' More than 1,000 centres in all Spanish regions are now signed up to teach the courses of the 'Internet for all' programme. Within two weeks of its launch, some 5,400 people have already signed up for the courses. As well as publicising the course through radio and television, the ministry has arranged for three stands to inform people of the programme at Madrid's forthcoming Book Fair. Stands at the fair, one of the biggest of its kind in Europe, will offer 45 minute sessions to inform people of the basics of the Internet. 'Information and culture are also on the Internet and for that reason a programme like 'Internet for all' cannot miss an event as important as the Book Fair,' said Ms Birulés.
Countries
Spain