This photo taken on June 26, 2018 shows Cambodian students and a teacher using computers in a modern classroom built under Prime Minister Hun Sen’s administration campaign for the “new generation” schools programme in Phnom Penh. Photo by TANG CHHIN Sothy / AFP
In bustling cities, digital connectivity is a given, a seamless part of daily life. But just a few hours away, in rural communities, the story is drastically different. While the allure of blazing-fast 5G networks is undeniable, their limited range poses a significant hurdle. Building the necessary infrastructure to deliver this technology efficiently is a complex undertaking.
Yet even the more accessible 4G networks can revolutionize education in rural schools. Imagine replacing dusty chalkboards and outdated textbooks with the boundless possibilities of the internet. In today’s world, where knowledge travels at light speed, this connectivity is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
The global pandemic underscored the importance of blended learning, a model that many schools continue to embrace. To make this work, a reliable internet connection is paramount, enabling high-quality live streams with crystal-clear video and audio.
Consider Nepal, a mountainous nation where icy terrains present unique challenges. Here, Huawei’s introduction of innovative technology, including IdeaHubs, laptops, desktops, and robust Wi-Fi infrastructure, is transforming education. Improved wireless connectivity allows students to explore the world beyond their remote villages and become proficient with digital tools.
More than 3,000 kilometres away, in Malaysia’s Bera district, a community of farmers and fishers faces similar connectivity challenges. To bridge this gap, Celcom, a leading network operator, has deployed Huawei’s RuralStar Pro. This device brings 4G connectivity to multiple schools and communities, enabling students at 38 primary and 10 secondary schools to learn with smart digital devices.
In Cambodia’s Siem Reap province, PeopleStories, a dedicated charity, is bringing digital education directly to rural students. Using tuk-tuks to transport laptops, they offer hands-on digital literacy experiences alongside traditional classes. Through online platforms, students learn English, basic computer skills, and critical thinking.
Cambodia’s commitment to digital transformation is evident in its Digital Government Policy 2022-2035, which prioritizes strengthening and expanding mobile and broadband infrastructure, laying the groundwork for 5G.
Prime Minister Hun Manet has also emphasized the crucial role of 5G in the telecommunications sector. For Cambodia’s leadership, reliable cell service and internet connectivity are as essential as water and electricity.
source: https://cambodianess.com/article/bridging-the-digital-divide-from-city-to-rural-landscape
