May 11, 2004

Ministry of Public Management,
Home Affairs,
Posts and Telecommunications



MPHPT sets up study group on a framework to support full IT usage by the handicapped



The MPHPT is setting up, with the participation of well-informed people, a study group on a framework to support full IT usage by the handicapped, in order to establish a system to support full IT usage by the handicapped at a regional level, so that they can obtain reliable and full support in their vicinity to make full use of IT. The first meeting will take place on May 18.

Purpose:
With the move to broadband in network infrastructure, and progress in putting in place electronic government and electronic independent governing bodies, IT continues to evolve as a new social base that is indispensable to people's lives, making it increasingly important that everyone, including the handicapped, can use IT easily and independently, and benefit from its value and advantages.

It continues to be the case, however, that many handicapped people do not find themselves in conditions where the environment allows them full use of IT and the various services that are provided through IT. For example, in cases where a handicapped person actually wants to make full use of IT, it is necessary, depending on the type and extent of the handicap, to provide support such as making overall adjustments in operating environment, including support equipment, software, and assistance tools. Problems arise, however, in that full support cannot be provided due to the lack of skills of the people who are needed for this, and their numbers.

That is why a study group is being set up with the aim of investigating measures to train and improve the skills required of the people who support full IT usage by the handicapped, and establish a model system for support of full IT usage by the handicapped at a regional level, so that the handicapped can obtain reliable and full support in their vicinity to make full use of IT.

Subjects for Investigation:
(1) Analysis of current situation of support of full IT usage by the handicapped and selection of matters
(2) Improvement of skills for people who support full IT usage by the handicapped and measures for training
(3) Model system for support of full IT usage by the handicapped at a regional level
(4) Other necessary subjects

Schedule:
To be held from May 18, 2004, with compilation of report planned for May 2005.

For details refer to the Japanese web site
http://www.soumu.go.jp/s-news/2004/040511_1.html

For further information about this press release, please contact:

International Policy Division, International Affairs Department
Telecommunications Bureau
Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs,
Posts and Telecommunications
Tel: (03) 5253-5920 Fax: (03) 5253-5924

Or visit
http://www.soumu.go.jp/joho_tsusin/eng/contact.html to fill in the inquiry form.