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Contact:
Primus Hutchinson
Friday, May 14, 2004 - St. Lucia will be among three other islands of the
OECS participating for the first time, in this years’ Internet Fiesta, a global
activity which started in Europe five years ago and is now included in the
events calendar of over 40 countries.
The fiesta which begins May 24 - 29 under the theme “Internet for all” is being
held in collaboration with the Association of IT Professionals of Martinique
together with a grouping named Open IT. The event is being co-ordinated at the
sub-regional level by the OECS Education Reform Unit, with the other
participating islands being Antigua/Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St.
Vincent.
National Coordinator for Internet Fiesta 2004, Dr. Cletus Bertin says the
objectives of the Internet Fiesta are to increase awareness of the
possibilities, which the Internet offers to the young and old, and private and
public sector workers in a fun filled environment, and to initiate an electronic
network with people across language and cultural barriers.
Dr. Bertin notes that a number of groups and communities island-wide are
expected to be involved in the various activities of the Internet Fiesta.
According to Dr. Bertin, they will be receiving free computer orientation and
hands on introductory session on the use of the internet, including assistance
in setting up e-mail accounts. He added that they have negotiated with Cable and
Wireless for free internet access at specific locations where there will be
multi media internet displays and special cyber attractions, including on line
celebrity chart sessions.
“We are also featuring an open forum, which will focus on of the sub theme of
the fiesta, IT and Tourism on Monday, May 24 at 4: 30 p.m. at the NIC Conference
Centre, where we hope to explore all of the different avenues as it relates to
exploiting and using IT and the internet in the tourism sector.” Dr. Bertin
said.
Other activities include a website challenge competition, a school IT lab
competition and a coding after party, which in effect is a programming marathon
event between St. Lucia and Martinique.
The activities begin at 10 am at the City Hall, and among the officials down to
address the opening ceremony is Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Kenny Anthony,
who is Patron of the event.
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