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The "i Learn at home" Internet Learning Support Programme was launched today (July 14) to assist needy students to undertake Web-based learning at home. Eligible students and families are encouraged to register for the services and offers provided by the two programme implementers.
"i Learn at home" is a five-year programme to help low-income families acquire affordable computer equipment and Internet access services, and to provide them with user and social support.
The two implementers, the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and eInclusion Foundation, will provide services under the brand names "WebOrganic" and "Net-Com rock n'roll" respectively in two geographical zones. "WebOrganic" covers Service Zone West (i.e. Central and Western, Islands, Kwai Tsing, Sham Shui Po, Southern, Tsuen Wan, Tuen Mun, Wan Chai, Yau Tsim Mong and Yuen Long) and "Net-Com rock n' roll" covers Service Zone East (i.e. Eastern, Kowloon City, Kwun Tong, North, Sai Kung, Sha Tin, Tai Po and Wong Tai Sin). They have set up a total of 24 service centres across the 18 districts.
"The offers provided by the implementers are impressive, with quality products at very affordable pricing. I do encourage eligible students and families to enrol for the programme early to enjoy the benefits of the Internet and enhance the quality of learning," the Government Chief Information Officer, Mr Stephen Mak, said.
Mr Mak said families could choose from a range of computers including desktop, notebook and netbook models with different configurations according to their needs. There were also the choices of fixed-line or mobile Internet services.
Students and families who are receiving the Internet Access Subsidy through the Student Financial Assistance Agency or the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance scheme are eligible to join the programme. They can register with the implementer responsible for their residential districts by visiting the service centres, or returning a completed enrolment form to the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer. The form can be downloaded from the programme portal (www.ilearnathome.hk), and will also be distributed through the Students Financial Assistance Agency, the Social Welfare Department and schools.
Ends/Thursday, July 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 17:11
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