c) enhancing the capacity of policy makers and public service officials from the three
countries on the issues of Information Society.
3) ICTs for development
a) enhancing the capacity of the three countries on the use and development of
different software models, including open-source and free software;
b) using ICTs to impart literacy skills;
c) harnessing Human Computer Interaction Technologies to address development
challenges, especially those related to illiteracy and disability;
d) conduct research on affordable connectivity, including wireless and satellite
technologies to extend access to ICTs, especially to under-privileged people and those
located in rural and remote areas;
e) harnessing technologies such as grid and cluster computing, high performance
conlputing and broadband communication networks for advancing research,
development and competitiveness;
t) conduct research on the use of ICT to overcome language barriers within and
amongst the three countries;
g) conduct research on interoperability frameworks to enable secure and fast exchange
of data within and between the three countries; and
h) conduct research on the use of ICTs to improve the delivery and access to health
services, education, promotion and support for Small Medium and Micro Enterprises
(SMMEs).
4) World Summit on the fuformation Society
The three countries shall continue to co-ordinate positions for the Wodd Summit on the
Information Society follow-up mechanisms, as well as for other fora and organisations related
to Information Society and ICTs.
Article 3
Modes of co-operation
This Framework shall be implemented through the following nlodes of co-operation:
a) co-ordination of initiatives;
b) sharing of experience and expertise through, inter alia, exchange of technical
missions and information;
3