Report of the Caribbean regional communications services study

Abstract

This study is a follow-up to a limited experiment with the use of satellites in education and public service conducted by The University of the West Indies (UWI) in 1978. It explores the feasibility of providing a number of services, which would include an extension system based on the use of the UWI telecommunications network. The study was designed to determine: 1) the level of interest for UWI extension and other programmes, 2) existing and potential resources for the provision of such services, 3) potential programming, 4) types and likely costs of delivery systems, 5) preliminary institutional groundwork that would be needed, and 6) financial support. An introduction describes general aspects and examples of telecommunications applications in the area, including specific applications of communications techniques in education, agriculture, and telemedicine in the various countries, and possible uses of a network by UWI. Additional topics discussed include: 1) the current status of agriculture, health, and education in the Caribbean; 2) expenditures and demographic trends; 3) possible telecommunications applications and available facilities; and 4) possible telecommunications networks. The report also includes reports on seminars, meetings, and demonstrations; recommendations for programme options; an appendix listing steps for the establishment of an open campus; and a glossary