Fighting coronavirus: UAE students, teachers to get access to free high-speed Internet

It will be provided to those who live in areas where broadband connections are not available.

Students and teachers who live in UAE areas without Internet connection will now have access to high-speed satellite broadband services, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has said. 
To be provided by Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat), this broadband connection will allow remote users to access online libraries, educational applications and collaborative platforms - helping them in the e-learning process amid the Covid-19 situation. 
Yahsat's services will be free of charge, as part of the MoE's Remote Schooling initiative. 
"Continuity of learning and the provision of educational tools and resources are key national priorities in the current conditions. The success of our mission depends on unifying nationwide efforts across institutions and individuals," said Jameela Al Muhairi, Minister of State for Public Education.
"After the launch of the ministry's Remote Schooling initiative, we have witnessed a high level of responsibility, awareness and increased logistic and financial support that are helping us achieve the desired outcomes. We are grateful to all our strategic partners for their contributions."
Yahsat's high-speed broadband connections and technical support enable effective communications and learning for virtual school communities through various digital platforms and the ministry's smart learning portal, Al Muhairi said.   
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, chief executive officer of Yahsat, said: "As the country's sole provider of advanced satellite communication solutions, Yahsat is committed to deploying our resources anywhere within the UAE to ensure normalcy of operations during this critical time. 
"We bridge the gap in regions that are beyond the reach of regular telecom networks. This new collaboration with the MoE will guarantee seamless continuity of the nation's education curriculum. 
"Students and teachers can take full advantage of the remote learning platforms over our satellite broadband network and carry out their tasks and responsibilities within the safe confines of their homes."
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi