October 29, 2009

Nokia on October 18, in an inaugural ceremony announced its new campaign 'Ovijaan' a journey across the Bangladesh aimed at empowering youth with greater access to information technology.

'Ovijaan' comprising two environment friendly 'cyber buses' are equipped with solar panels and internet set up for 5 Nokia handsets and 5 computer stations. Nokia has launched the journey with a vision to drive internet literacy and create email identities for next generation in the country.

State Minister for Science, Information and Communication Technology Yeafesh Osman presided over the event as chief guest.

The minister reiterated Bangladesh Government's commitment behind the ICT sector and stressed the importance of ensuring easy and affordable access to internet in the rural community, specially among the youths. He commended Nokia for this unique initiative and encouraged Nokia's efforts in helping the country to take a step towards reaching the vision of Digital Bangladesh.

First of its kind 'Ovijaan' will start its journey on October 18, 2009. It will cover 40 major district towns reaching 120 schools and colleges across the country in the first phase. A bus will start from Dinajpur while another from Cox's Bazaar criss crossing the country.

At major district towns, seminars and workshops will also be organized to get local leaders, celebrities and people involved in creating awareness about information technology use and its advantages. After school hours, the buses will be stationed at a known public place in the town ensuring access to everyone.

As part of the campaign, Nokia has also proposed to help the District Commissioners to activate email accounts for administrative purposes and government communication, which will allow more direct communication with the locals.

“Connecting Bangladeshi youths to the immense opportunity of World Wide Web is instrumental to progress Bangladesh towards a digital future. Nokia wholeheartedly support Bangladesh Government's vision of utilizing ICT for development.

We are committed to partner with the Government for rapid growth and expansion of ICT and internet in Bangladesh, ” said Prem Chand, General Manager, Nokia Emerging Asia.

“Ovijaan is one of Nokia's series of initiatives to make internet a reality in grassroots. We believe the next generations Bangladeshis are eager and ready to connect to the worldwide platform provided through internet.

All they need is easy access and we are excited to provide them their first opportunity to experience internet through Ovijaan” Chand added.

Through 'Ovijaan', Nokia aims to fuel the growth of the Internet in Bangladesh and act as a catalyst to Bangladesh's digital transformation.

Source: The Dailystar