Comcast to Offer Low-Cost Internet Service, Computers and Digital Literacy Training

Comcast is piloting a program to offer computers, internet access and digital literacy training for needy families.

"Families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches can sign up for low-cost, high-speed internet access, buy a computer at a discount, and take free digital literacy training.

“Access to the internet is akin to a civil rights issue for the 21st century,” said David Cohen, Comcast’s executive vice president. “It’s that access that enables people in poorer areas to equalize access to a quality education, quality health care and vocational opportunities.”

"As part of its merger with NBC Universal earlier this year, Comcast is required to provide 2.5 million low-income households with high-speed internet access for less than $10 a month; computers for less than $150 a month; and digital literacy training, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

"Superintendent Alberto Carvalho—a 2011 Tech-Savvy Superintendent Award winner from eSchool News—and others will launch the Internet Essentials program Aug. 3 at Phillis Wheatley Elementary School in Miami."

It will be interesting to learn how this program will roll out in the MPICT region.

eSchool News