In a groundbreaking move, Brazil has launched a National Strategy for Connected Schools, aiming to provide internet connectivity to all state-run schools by 2026. The strategy addresses the urgent need for improved access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the country’s educational system, which has seen significant progress but still faces challenges in regions like the Amazon and rural areas.
Despite ongoing efforts, about 8,000 schools in Brazil remain without internet access, and many others do not meet quality standards. These challenges are exacerbated by the geographical expanse of Brazil, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The new strategy aims to bring unity to various ongoing initiatives, coordinate efforts across federal, state, and municipal governments, and ensure long-term sustainability through targeted funding and infrastructure development.
Brazil’s connectivity strategy is supported by ITU (International Telecommunication Union) and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO). These partnerships have provided technical, regulatory, and infrastructure support, guiding the strategy’s formulation and implementation. According to Jefferson Nacif, head of international advisory at Brazil’s Ministry of Communications, the expertise provided by the ITU and FCDO has been critical in overcoming Brazil’s school connectivity challenges.
The Giga initiative, led by ITU and UNICEF, aims to connect every school globally by 2030, and Brazil is one of the key countries benefiting from this initiative. The program is now operational in 30 countries, with Brazil receiving substantial support to address its last-mile connectivity challenges.
The goal is to ensure that all Brazilian students, regardless of location, can access quality digital education. This initiative will help bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive digital access. The strategy also focuses on creating a unified governance committee that will oversee its execution, ensuring efficient implementation across Brazil’s vast education system.
The initiative aligns with Brazil’s broader goals of digital transformation and closing the digital divide. President Lula da Silva highlighted that this effort represents Brazil’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all students, helping them thrive in a digitally driven world.
