Internet initiative to boost health research in Africa, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe

Abstract

In December 2000 the WHO launched an initiative to bridge the information technology gap. This initiative will establish high-speed Internet connectivity provide top-quality scientific information online and train researchers in information management so they can exploit these services to the full. 6-12 month pilot projects of this initiative will begin in early 2001 at nine health research institutes specializing in tropical diseases reproductive health and communicable and noncommunicable diseases in Africa (Ghana Mali Mozambique Tanzania and Uganda) Central Asia (Mongolia) and Eastern Europe (Armenia and Uzbekistan). To culminate the launching of this initiative several pilot projects have been planned which will include Health InterNetwork partners that will provide computer technology training and logistic support tailored to meet the differing needs of researchers policymakers and health care providers in different countries. Other pilot projects in the pipeline include a program for nurse training in Africa and a project to improve the flow of information and communication at all levels within Indias health system.