With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, like many other countries, Bhutan also digitalized its education system. However, according to the Member of Parliament of Khar-Yurung, Tshering Chhoden, the quality of education in remote parts of the country has been compromised due to low internet speed. She asked the government’s plans and measures to address the issue during the question hour session of the National Assembly yesterday.
Internet and mobile connectivity in far-flung villages of the country are still poor, according to many people. With education going online due to the pandemic, equality in the education system was questioned by the Khar-Yurung MP.
“In remote corners of the country, due to poor internet services, the quality of education has become poor. This has also created a gap in education equality between students studying in urban areas and rural areas. What is the government planning to do about it? What are the measures in place to ensure equal reach of education by the government? ” the MP asked.
The Information and Communications Minister, Karma Donnen Wangdi, many activities under the Digital Drukyul Flagship Programme are underway such as the Optical Fibre connection in schools.
“We are currently setting up optical fibre structures in all schools. After its completion, the bandwidth will increase whereby the speed of the internet will improve. The Ministry in collaboration with BICMA, Bhutan Telecom and Tashi Cell is currently working on the Rural Connectivity Project, RCP 6. The government has allocated a budget of Nu 270 M for the project. This project will provide and enhance mobile connectivity and internet services in over 480 households,” said Lyonpo.
The Ministry is also exploring international platforms to enhance the reach and connectivity of the internet.
“The Ministry is also in talks with Starlink, an international internet business firm. If the discussions and plans succeed, we will be able to provide internet services through their satellite. We are currently working on it,” Lyonpo added.
Since the pandemic is here to stay for a while, developing the existing mobile and internet connectivity has become very crucial to keep up the quality of education. Today, online classes are still ongoing in high risk-areas such as Phuntshogling and Samtse.
Tshering Dendup
