ICT Use and Access in the Pacific: Emerging Perspectives

Abstract

New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has funded the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) to implement a project to contribute to enhanced capacity and efficiency of Pacific education sectors through greater use of innovative delivery mechanisms and technology. This report studies the use, accessibility, risks and opportunities for open distance and flexible learning (ODFL) in 9 Pacific Island countries (Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu). It seeks to gather insights from empirical analysis of survey-based responses of a group of broadly representative stakeholders from these countries including students, teachers and government officials who share their experience of using the internet and, in particular, ODFL technologies in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The data analysis combines with secondary research and provide a recommendation that can strengthen ODFL opportunities in the Pacific.