In a bid to bring internet and computer education closer to the youth in Mindanao, Globe Telecommunications has tied up with United States Agency for International Development's (USAID) Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) to provide WiMax connections to six public schools in Zamboanga City.

The six are Don Pablo Lorenzo Memorial National High School, J-Jireh School, Southcom National High School, Sinunuc Elementary School, Zamboanga City High School (Main) and Sinunuc National High School.

The schools are already part of the USAID-GEM's Computer Literacy and Internet Connection (CLIC) Program, which provides schools with computers that have Internet connection.

The launching was graced by US Ambassador Kristie Kenney, who was quick to test the program and chat with students of Don Pablo Lorenzao Memorial National High School. Kenney said it is important to expose the students to the new technology and make information available to them.

"Today's launch takes Zamboanga City nearer to developing health care opportunities, opens the doors to development and other prospects. It is wonderful to see education take our young people to places," Kenney said in her speech.

Globe said WiMax's larger coverage and higher bandwidth performance allows the company to provide high-speed Internet service to previously unserviceable areas. Fifteen WiMax sites, short for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Acess, have been established in strategic areas in Zamboanga City.

Hoyle Disuanco, Head of the Globe Consumer Sales in Visayas and Mindanao said four more WiMax sites will be established by September.