Ecosystems Offer Diverse Global Solutions
4/26/2006

Since launching 50x15 in 2004, AMD has learned that enabling the world’s population with affordable Internet access will require robust partnerships and a variety of technical solutions.  The diversity in the digital and cultural landscape around the world presents a challenge that requires multiple organizations all working together to achieve a common goal.  Successful deployments require established local “geo-sensitive” ecosystems. These ecosystems must comprise various combinations of local governments, NGOs, partner organizations, educational institutions, and thought leaders.

Let’s travel around the world and look at a few examples of how these ecosystems have increased connectivity and changed lives.

First stop, China (Internet penetration: 8.5%*). Early last year AMD, Lenovo and Dawning came together to answer the call of the Chinese government. After a successful deployment of 26,000 AMD Sempron™ processor-based computers in schools across the Hebei province, the Chinese government awarded the trio of partners additional contracts to deploy technology solutions across an additional 17 provinces. To date, millions of students have been connected with more than 210,000 PCs deployed.

Next stop, Brazil (Internet penetration: 14.1%*). Last October, AMD, Telefonica and the State Government of São Paolo deployed Personal Internet Communicators (PICs) to improve communications in Santo Amaro. The PICs are all connected to an AMD Athlon™ processor-based HP desktop that acts as a server to provide the PICs with printing capabilities. The AMD sponsored E-Poupatempo center, which is part of the greater state government initiative to provide everyday resources to citizens of São Paolo, earned AMD and the Administration of the State of São Paulo an "IT Innovation" award. The Poupatempo program, meaning “save time” is rapidly being embraced by people throughout São Paolo.

On to South Africa (Internet penetration: 7.4%*). Problematic, obsolete PCs frustrated students and administrators alike at Diepsloot Combined School. AMD worked with Principal Veronica Kgabo to set up a Learning Lab of PICs specifically designed to withstand rugged environments while providing reliable computing capabilities. The 38 PICs were installed within an hour and the impact was felt immediately.  Teachers reported higher student retention, higher grades, and an overall renewed excitement towards learning.

Final stop for today, Uganda (Internet penetration: .7%*). The needs of Uganda were quite different than the previous locations we have visited today. Unlike the previous deployments, PCs and managed devices were inappropriate solutions for the desolate area. AMD, Wyse, and NGOs Inveneo and ActionAid united to bring solar-powered thin client computing capability and Internet access into several villages in Uganda. These highly reliable, low-energy consumption devices are maintained by ActionAid trained local community members.

This is just a brief glimpse of the impact that an ecosystem approach can have on bridging the digital divide. Success stories such as these would not be possible without a coordinated effort from international and regional organizations. Stay tuned for more to come…

*Statistics from http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats.htm

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