In these days of confusion, announcements and denials, when we first read this news, we must admit that we hesitated for a moment. But no, it really is true: the Italian Ministry for Technological Innovation and Digitisation has launched a Digital Solidarity plan for people quarantined due to Coronavirus.
On the proposal of Minister Paola Pisano, the plan had a very rapid response: 12 companies in the sector have offered to make the opportunities available free of charge to citizens who are suffering limitations because they reside in the ‘red areas.’ These opportunities would be technological solutions that allow people to work and study at a distance but also for the little ones to find sociality, recreation and play. In detail, Cisco, Connexia and Microsoft will provide IT solutions for smart working and remote video connection- Eolo, Fastweb, Vodafone and Wind, will offer connection services for this. The Gedi Group will provide subscriptions to its digital newspapers, Mondadori e-book, IBM and Weschool platforms for distance learning and study with Amazon Prime access to its entertainment platform.
The initiative is aimed at ICT companies, public and private bodies, small and medium-sized enterprises, start-ups, research centres and private citizens who think their services, skills and energy may help citizens and businesses most affected by the Coronavirus emergency.
“Italy is one large municipality and a situation like this affects us all, no one is excluded. Digital and innovation can help us win and we have a duty to try to use them in the common interest, in the best possible way and without leaving anyone behind…” said Minister Paola Pisano. “…Whether you are a multinational or a public subsidiary, a start-up, a small or medium-sized business, an association of volunteers or simply digital and technology enthusiasts- please step forward if you think you have a solution or a service capable of making a difference and that will help to guarantee a sustainable newspaper to those who live in quarantined areas.”
Anyone can join the initiative simply by writing to repubblicadigitale@teamdigitale.governo.it.
In your application you need to:
– Describe your service
– Explain the methods and timing of application in one of the two proposed areas
– Express your intention to make the service in question available to the population or authorities for the time necessary
The areas of attention concern the following areas:
– To be able to work remotely, through fast and free connectivity and the use of advanced smart working platforms
– To be able to read a newspaper for free even without going to the newsstand or a book without going to the library on your smartphone or tablet
– To be able to keep up with school and training courses, thanks to e-learning platforms.
