Launch of STAR.TT ICT Access Centre

Today, the Ministry of Science and Technology launches the first STAR.TT ICT Access Centre. The objective of these centres is to close the existing digital gap that exists in remote parts of Trinidad and Tobago. The launch will take place at the Penal Central Community Centre at 11:00am. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar will deliver the feature address.

The STAR.TT ICT Access Centres initiative is a direct result of the Ministry of Science and Technology’s mandate; that is, to facilitate the uptake and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Trinidad and Tobago.
The widespread usage of ICTs will contribute to the social, economic and cultural development of Trinidad and Tobago.

The STAR.TT Access Centres are community-based and are designed to create user-friendly, technology-enabled environments. This will allow citizens and business entities that are located in remote areas of the country to quickly access information and e-government services.

The ICT Access Centres will also act as a hub for knowledge sharing, entrepreneurial opportunities as well as the strengthening of community bonds.

A total of forty-four (44) Community-based ICT Access Centres will be made available to the public over the period 2013- 2016. Phase 1 will feature the introduction of centres in the following areas:
Penal / Siparia / Debe
Toco / Cumana
Mayaro
Tobago East
Tabaquite / Talparo
Point – Fortin / Cedros

Quote: “ICTs can best be used as a catalyst for transformation – Education, Community, Business, Infrastructure and Government. By focusing on educational infrastructure in development we are creating a labour force that is better equipped to deal with the challenges of the 21st century. We recognise the urgent need for becoming innovative and embracing the latest technologies.”– Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, VII Americas Competitiveness Forum, Panama, October 2013.