3.2.1 Policy Objectives and Strategies There is a limited supply of qualified ICT professionals in the country and the high cost of ICT training programmes serves as a barrier to building capacity in this area. Educators frequently lack ICT literacy and expertise and thus, in many cases, have been ineffective at integrating and utilising existing ICTs in schools. Furthermore, the high cost of equipment deters educators from making the purchase of computers and Internet connectivity a priority when schools lack basic amenities and educational supplies. Government is committed to a comprehensive programme of rapid deployment, utilisation and exploitation of ICTs within the formal educational system as well as vocational institutions. Policy efforts shall be directed at using ICTs to facilitate education and life long learning and to support efforts of the private sector in its delivery of on-the-job training and re-training programmes. Objectives The objectives that will lead to effective education and human resource development include • Facilitate the deployment, utilisation and exploitation of ICTs within the educational system to improve access to information so as to support teaching and learning at all levels. • Transform Lesotho into an ICT literate nation by promoting ICT awareness and computer literacy throughout the education system and within the public at large. • Use ICTs to develop the education system to improve and expand access to educational training and research resources and facilities. • Broaden access to education and training opportunities by promoting electronic distance education and virtual learning. • Promote and facilitate programmes designed to improve job skills within the public and private sectors. • Build and retain a critical mass of ICT professionals needed to manage innovation in the country. ICT Policy for Lesotho 29