The Caribbean Knowledge and Learning Network (CKLN) signed a financing agreement of €10 million with the European Union (EU) for C@ribNET. This funding supports the second phase of the C@ribNET project which involves the procurement and implementation of the regional high-speed, fibre optic network.

Ken Sylvester, chief executive officer, CKLN mentioned that these funds will supplement what CKLN received earlier this year from the IDB to conduct infrastructural assessments for the implementation of the C@ribNET project in CARIFORUM countries.  

“This second component of work will include the provision of network equipment, network links, network engineering and operations,” he explained.

Commenting on a significant aspect under this component of funding, Sylvester mentioned that the project is expected to realise a significant level of self sustainability at the end of five (5) years of implementation.

“This funding also goes towards the development of a sustainability business plan. This business plan will provide the relevant details including minimum conditions for sustainability using the model from a counterpart network, CLARA, setup for Latin America.”

The aim of the C@ribNET project is to coordinate and harmonise activities among and within CARIFORUM countries by capitalising on opportunities offered by ICT to achieve common objectives through e-learning, e-inclusion and research.

The project will provide social bandwidth to education, government, health and other public institutions in the region, facilitating exchange and establishment of joint research networks.

“When completed, C@ribNET will be interconnected to other global research and education networks,” he said. “CKLN is confident that what has been promised can be delivered. We are committed to facilitating the move towards digital inclusion for the Caribbean region.”