VietNamNet Bridge – A new public internet system is being set up to serve thousands of people in 12 poor provinces throughout Viet Nam.

As many as 634 public Internet access points have already been opened in 12 poor provinces, including Thai Nguyen, Nghe An and Tra Vinh.

This is the first phase of a project named Improvement of Computer Usage and Public Internet Access Ability in Viet Nam. Under the scheme, last year it began installing the outlets in post offices – and in libraries in provinces, districts, schools, hospitals and peoples' committees.

About 4,180 computers, 637 printers, 11 servers and other subsidiary equipment have been installed at these points.

The project, being carried out by the Ministry of Information and Communication, aims to help people improve their lives through using computers and having internet access.

It provides free internet access at libraries and a 50 per cent fee reduction at post offices.

The 2011-16 project is projected to provide public internet services at 900 libraries in provinces, districts and communes – and at 1,000 "cultural" post offices in 40 deprived provinces.

Nearly 2,000 local staff and managers will be trained in IT skills.

The US$50 million project is supported by Viet Nam Post and Telecommunication Corporation, the Military Telecom Corporation, Bill&Melinda Gates Foundation and Microsoft Company.

VietNamNet/VNS