The government’s objective of making Bhutan an information technology (IT) habitat received a significant boost with the signing of an agreement with the multinational company, Intel, last week.

The agreement signed on 26 February marked the start of Intel’s involvement in Bhutan’s IT development program by finalising the company’s offer to donate 200 netbooks, along with software, online educational resources and computer accessories for rural schools.

The vice president for Intel in the Asia-Pacific region, Navin Shenoy, speaking at the signing event, said Intel “is very proud” to be collaborating with the government. He said that Intel wants to demonstrate the value of information and communications technologies in schools, by creating an enhanced learning experience and integrating technology into education.

Similarly, communications minister Lyonpo Nandalal Rai said the establishment of collaboration with Intel strengthened Bhutan’s IT aspirations. He thanked Intel for being interested in Bhutan.

The government is hopeful that the microprocessor manufacturing company will expand local involvement to a very significant level. Lyonpo Nandalal Rai, also speaking at the event, expressed hope that the company’s involvement will lead to local production of computers. “I sincerely hope and pray that this collaboration will gain momentum and lead to other areas of cooperation, such as establishment of computer manufacturing units with Intel and its allies in the near future,” said Lyonpo Nandalal Rai.

Although no time frame or other areas of collaboration was provided, more agreements are scheduled to be signed with Intel in “due course”, said the minister. Source: Kuenselonline