Bhutan's ICT policy takes several key issues into consideration, including:

Infrastructure

Infrastructure development is needed to improve national telecommunications, especially for people in remote areas, and to establish data networks in all government departments.

A survey in 2001 reported that there were 2,550 computers in total, the majority of them owned by corporations. IT equipment for schools is to be purchased centrally, from the Division of Education, preferably through outsourcing to the private sector. Each high school in the country will have at least one classroom equipped with PCs which are linked by a LAN. Primary schools will have a few PCs each and computer clubs will be introduced. Resource centres will be set up for schools without electricity. A national Intranet for schools will be set up and each student should have some free access time on the Internet.

Human resources and training

The policy highlights the need for information management and content development to provide e-governance services to the people.

Capacity-building in the ICT training centres and schools will be of special priority for employees, high school dropouts and unemployed youth. The Government will introduce IT training in all teacher training institutes and provide subsidies for teachers to buy PCs. IT will be a compulsory subject in grades 9 and 10. The syllabus will also be amended so that related subjects fully prepare students for life in a knowledge-based society. E-mail will be encouraged.

Institutional arrangements

Government bodies must co-ordinate and regulate ICT-related activities. The DIT was established to promote ICT in the country, while the Bhutan Telecom Authority has responsibility for telecommunication services. The policy planning division of the ministry provides policy guidance and directions.

Public access and awareness

Public access points should be established throughout the country, accompanied by a promotional and awareness programme to inform the public about the benefits of ICT.

Useful Links:

• Bhutan Information and Communications Technology Policy and Strategies (BIPS) (PDF 350KB)
• The Bhutan Department of Information and Technology (DIT)