By the Caribbean Journal staff

Antigua and Barbuda’s government has launched its multimillion-dollar GATE project, something it hopes will be a major driver of development in information and communication technologies.

The Government-Assisted Technology Endeavour is a partnership between Antigua and Barbuda and regional telecom firm Digicel.

The project will focus on improving Antigua’s broadband internet connectivity, along with a focus on stimulating growth in innovation, entrepreneurship, job creation and sustainability.

Dr Edmond Mansoor, Minister of State in the Office of Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer, said GATE was a “bold step forward” in preparing the country for the next two decades.

Antigua and Digicel’s collaboration is highlighted by a project aimed at deploying 4G LTE technology in the country.

But GATE has four major components: an ICT Cadet Programme, which was already launched in June, aimed at targeting individuals who have completed secondary school for training and work experience in ICT.

The second component involves improving internet connectivity and technology in the classroom, led by the allocation of secondary school students with a 4G LTE computer tablet and 4G LTE broadband connectivity.

The third component involves providing 4G LTE connectivity for Antigua’s government, while the fourth is marked by the creation of a multi-purpose ICT training facility and special needs resource centre in the Michael’s Mount area of Antigua.

That facility will be built by Digicel on state-owned lands, according to the government.