19 October 2004

Connect Internet Solutions Limited will play a leading role in a multi- million pound project, which aims to empower young individuals in Wales by helping them exploit the latest technology.

CREDU, an exciting project created by Canllaw Online and Fujitsu Services, will give young people in Wales the necessary technology-based resources and skills to access and share a wealth of information.

Launched by the Minister of Economic Development and e-Minister, Andrew Davies, the £17m project will encourage young people to create and contribute digital content into a bi- lingual all-Wales ‘portal of choice’, to be developed by leading web development company Connect Internet Solutions Limited. With access to training and a wealth of multimedia equipment and resources at their fingertips, young people will have the opportunity to develop their skills, express their opinions and share information through a variety of media.

As part of the national project a network of 82 ‘digilabs’ will be set up across Wales. They will accommodate the most up-to-date technology and multi-media equipment – such as high speed internet/broadband linked computers, digital cameras, video cameras, colour printers and scanners and video-conferencing equipment – all complemented by the latest software.

The project has received £9m financial support from the European Regional Development Fund, granted by the Welsh European Funding Office, acting as the body responsible for the implementation of Structural Funds in Wales on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government.

Welsh Assembly Minister for Economic Development and Transport, Andrew Davies, said: ‘CREDU, and the Digilab network, will provide young people with the opportunity to learn essential ICT skills, which are vital to the continued transformation of Wales into a high-value, knowledge based economy. This network, and the increased participation of young people in developing ICT skills, complements our wider Assembly Government Agenda of exploiting the potential of ICT to the full.’

‘CREDU is an excellent example of how we are using structural funds to support the strategic priorities of the Assembly Government – building a sustainable, dynamic and innovative economy based on partnership with the voluntary and private sectors.’

‘This is truly a landmark day for Wales, for the young people of Wales and for the future of Wales.’

Carole Boardman, Public Sector Director of Connect Internet Solutions Limited, commented: ‘Connect is delighted to have been commissioned with developing the portal that is such an integral part of this important project – we look forward to using our expertise in this area to deliver a ‘portal of choice’ that younger people will be both excited and enthused by.’

Individuals in photograph above:

From left to right:- Carole Boardman – Public Sector Director, Connect Internet Solutions Ltd

Andrew Davies – Minister for Economic Development and Transport, and e- Minister

Elise Stewart – Director, Canllaw Online

Colin Charlton – Chief Executive, Connect Internet Solutions Ltd

| More on www.credu.co.uk