KEY POINTS:
National leader John Key has promised to spend at least $150 million over the next three years to gear schools up for the arrival of ultra-fast fibre broadband.
National has promised $1.5 billion to roll out a fibre optic network capable of higher internet speeds throughout most of New Zealand.
Mr Key today said the $150m he was promising today would go towards ensuring schools' own systems were up to scratch to make the most of faster broadband.
That could mean upgrading internal school networks and computers.
Mr Key made the announcement today at decile one Otara middle school, Clover Park, which has a dedicated technology facility.
"Clover Park is a computer-savvy school that makes the most of ultra-fast broadband.
"Pupils here are being equipped for tomorrow with 21st century skills and the use of cutting-edge information technology," he said.
"The possibilities for new teaching and learning approaches using video-conferencing, virtual learning, and international information portals will change the face of education globally.
"I want New Zealand schools to be part of that change."
Mr Key said schools would be a priority in the roll out of National's fibre network.
The funding for the plan would come from National's previously announced six-year $3.7b boost for new infrastructure.
- NZPA
