Charity promotes “off-grid learning” in remote regions
US-based charity, Outernet, is promoting free web access to countries with limited internet access via a portable, solar-powered wi-fi receiver. “Low-bandwidth learning applications” such as this are seen as more important than the usual high-speed internet learning options in remote and under-connected regions. “Outernet is a project which tries to connect the less internet-connected countries and regions and to provide such places with content and learning tools,” says Dr Yuen Kin-sun at The Open University of Hong Kong who thinks the platform will be adopted by philanthropic organisations wanting to help less developed countries.

The Lighthouse Wi-fi receiver picks up free internet from telecoms satellites. Photo: courtesy of Outernet