Bhutan is a late starter in the communications space, with the earliest efforts at introducing TV or other forms of information and communications technologies, dating back to only early 1999-2000. It is therefore positioned to reap the advantages of a late starter in the technology space by not having any legacy systems, having manageable amounts of data, access to relatively more cost effective technologies and opportunities for adoption of new (and open) standards. In addition, Bhutan is characterized by a unique environment for development of an ICT-based society by way of a stable and vibrant government; small population; widespread knowledge of English; good telecom network in much of the urban areas; and the Government’s commitment to adopting ICT as a development tool.
Lack of funds for significant ICT adoption in schools is cited as a significant problem. Funds need to be generated to provide ICT facilities to schools at all levels. Private sector participation in the information, communications space has become prominent and will continue to grow in the tenth year plan as the government gradually withdraws from service provisioning to focus on policy and regulatory roles. Public-private partnerships have been successfully implemented and such collaborations will continue in the near future.
