The ITU-T Focus Group on Costing models for affordable data services is analyzing the supply-chain of telecom/ICT, the multiple cost models and pricing strategies used for mobile data services and Internet services and study the policy, economic, regulatory and standardization aspects related to cost models for affordable data services, including best practices of cost assessment methodologies and economic models.
The fourth episode of this webinar series focused on Applications for Universal Service Fund and took place on 8 May 2024 from 14h00 to 15h15 CEST.
As part of its initiatives, the Focus Group is convening a series of webinars dedicated to the areas of study and to bring in non members to contribute to its work. The objective of this webinar was to delve into the innovative applications of the Universal Service Fund (USF) aimed at making the cost of data services and Internet, more accessible and affordable with a focus on Internet Service Providers and small providers of telecom services.
The webinar discussed the challenges faced by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in accessing appropriate credit conditions to support their investments in digital connectivity infrastructure and innovative applications of Universal Service Fund which can help towards achieving inclusive and affordable access to Internet while bolstering a nation's digital infrastructure, creating opportunities for sustainable socioeconomic progress.
Within this context, the webinar featured insights from two distinct stakeholders regarding disruptive approaches to utilizing the USF:
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) showcased initiatives in the Americas that leverage the USF to alleviate financial burdens for small providers
The World Bank presented initiatives involving the utilization of the USF in other regions worldwide
This collaborative exploration promised to shed light on innovative strategies for maximizing the impact of the Universal Service Fund, ultimately contributing to the attainment of meaningful global connectivity.
Target audience: mobile network operators, industry associations, cost model experts, policymakers, and Internet service providers
Panelists:
Chair, Focus Group on Costing Models for Affordable Data Services & Vice Chair, ITU-T SG3
| International Telecommunications Consultant Inter-American Development Bank
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Luciano Charlita de Freitas
Digital Development Consultant, World Bank Group
[Presentation]
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Deputy Administrator
Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), Government of India
|  Senior Programme Officer Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT)
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