Nabilah S
In the post-Covid era, e-learning and teleworking have become vital for full social and economic inclusion worldwide, making internet connectivity essential regardless of location.
To enhance such access, optical technology company Ciena is collaborating with operator Digicel Fiji and cable network provider Southern Cross for the second consecutive year to equip schools in Fiji with high-speed internet access of at least 10 Mbps through the Digicel Fiji network.
In March 2023, the three companies jointly launched Project Semata, an initiative aimed at providing high-speed internet access and online learning resources to three schools in Savusavu, Fiji.
The initiative was designed to deliver dedicated direct 10 Mbps internet access via the Digicel Fiji network to three schools in Savusavu – the Kamendra School, Savusavu Secondary School, and St. Bedes Secondary School. This project provides around 2,000 teachers and students with high-speed internet, supporting their educational journey with access to new online learning materials.
At the project’s inception, only a small percentage of students in Savusavu had access to broadband internet at home. This initiative aimed to provide students and teachers at these schools with essential learning resources and the opportunity to develop skills vital for a digital economy.
As the project enters its second year, The Assemblies of God High School, Basden Anglican College, and Ratu Sukuna Memorial School in Fiji will now receive enhanced internet access through Project Semata. This phase of the project, involving three new schools, will benefit over 2,000 teachers and students in Suva.
“We have been progressing towards e-learning with the installation of interactive boards and overhead projectors for our Years 12 and 13 students. With this timely assistance of free internet, we can empower our students,” said Savusavu Secondary School principal, Rusiate Musudroka. “Access to online resources is also beneficial for our teachers in enhancing the education experience.”
Ivan Polizzi, regional managing director of Ciena for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, emphasized, “As a business dedicated to building advanced networks, it is crucial for us that everyone has access to the digital tools and resources they need to succeed in life. Project Semata is part of the Ciena Digital Inclusion program, designed to help close the digital divide through enhanced connectivity, access to technology, and digital skill development.”
Waisale Tavatuilagi, head of school at Basden Anglican College, stated, “This remarkable initiative will connect us to the world, supporting our daily teaching and learning processes. It will enable teachers to access the latest teaching methods. Students will benefit from greater access to a variety of resources, which can help them prepare thoroughly for any assessment or examination.
“Communication barriers between all school stakeholders will be eliminated, and the internet will be an excellent tool for monitoring and informing parents about their child’s performance in school.”
