May 22, 2006
Giving technology away for free will make more money
The Computer Clubhouse a not for profit global network of community based computer centres has set up shop in New
Zealand.
The network, one of the largest of its kind in the world is in partnership with the Museum of Science Boston, Intel
Corporation and (MIT) Massachusetts Institute of Technology Media Labs; an award-winning community-based education
program where underserved youth have free access to high-tech equipment and mentors to build self-confidence and an
enthusiasm for learning that will help them develop job and life skills.
The Computer Clubhouse in New Zealand has deployed the first Clubhouse in Otara in Manukau City. The project working in
close partnership with leading New Zealand ICT providers and the community is providing a three pronged approach (1)
Neighbourhood Computer Clubhouses (2) A wireless network reaching over a significant portion of Manukau City (3) End
connectivity including working with MIT Boston's latest initiative OLCP which is aiming to distribute 10 million purpose
designed USD $ 100 Laptops to under served and third world communities at the beginning of next year.
Mike Usmar project coordinator for the New Zealand deployment says "we aim to provide this innovative approach to
underserved communities for free as it is clear that significant impact on economic development and increase of social
capital occurs when communities have access to leading edge technology. We applaud the Governments initiative both in
the recent announcement of local unbundling of the network and the investment they are making into the ICT industry and
communities through the Digital Strategies programme. Providing access will see an underserved market engage and use the
technology, becoming valuable consumers and contributors to the knowledge economy of New Zealand reports Usmar.
The first programme has partnered with Clover Park Middle School and Te Whanau o Tupuranga, and three of their students
have been selected to travel to Boston in July as part of a world wide Computer Clubhouse Teen Summit sponsored by the
Intel Computer Clubhouse Network.
ENDS