Pilot Test

ADB on Wednesday approved a technical assistance (TA) grant of US$800,000 to pilot test two community information networks that will bring vital information to the poor and disabled in two districts of Sri Lanka.
The grant, from ADBs Poverty Reduction Cooperation Fund, will establish the networks to link district offices, schools, training institutes, job placement centers, hospitals, markets, private companies, and villagers in Gampaha and Ratnapura districts.









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rnThe TA may be extended to conflict areas to promote social integration and nation building. rn

rnEventually, operation of the network will be handed over to the community or private sector.rn

rnIn the meantime, users will be able to access important information through the Internet and fax machines to help them with a multitude of information like monitor crop prices, order goods and services, consult doctors, enroll in distance learning classes, and pay taxes. rn

rn"The TA will be a testing ground for electronic learning, commerce,