TANAH MERAH: The Education Ministry is upgrading internet connectivity at the nation’s schools, especially in rural areas, so that teachers can use the web as a teaching tool.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid, said a contractor is currently carrying out upgrading works, which should be completed next year.
"Presently, schools in urban areas have good connectivity, but rural schools which are (more isolated) have a slower internet speed, which makes it difficult for teachers to carry out their work online.
"I was informed that out of 10,000 schools (identified for upgrading) throughout the country, about 6,000 have been upgraded and have connectivity," Mahdzir told reporters after launching the state-level Teachers Day celebration at SMK Belimbing here yesterday.
He said it is hoped that the improvements being carried out will assist teachers in their class work, adding that educators in the 21st century must be well-versed with information technology.
"They must use IT in their teaching besides conversing with their students. Otherwise, they will be left far behind," Mahdzir added.
