# PROMOTION OF CONTENT AND APPLICATIONS, AND DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

## Formation of a New Content Distribution

In order to achieve the goal of the e-Japan Strategy, which is the realization of the most advanced IT nation in the world, it is essential to increase network content of good quality and create an optimal cycle for the development of infrastructure and the enhancement of content. As a consequence, the MPHPT has been promoting a wide range of policies towards the formation of a new content distribution market that would be able to accommodate the broadband network era. For example, as part of the research and development for a creative information and communications system, the ministry has consigned Telecommunications Advancement Organizations of Japan (TAO) a research and development project over the period fiscal 1998 to 2001 concerning a content distribution system that would promote the use of highly functional broadband content by utilizing such digital technologies as interactive functions and data storage functions.

## Promotion of Telework and SOHO

Telework and SOHO (small office/home office) are forms of remote work that utilize information and communications technology. These forms of work offer a variety of benefits including the alleviation of the burden of commuting, the promotion of a greater compatibility between work, childcare, and nursing care for the elderly, creating more opportunities for women, the elderly, and the mentally or physically challenged to work, and the reduction of burdens on the global environment. In order to promote the widespread adoption of Telework and SOHO, the MPHPT has been promoting the development of local facilities and designs and R&D for the information and communications system.

## Promotion of New Information and Communications Businesses

In order to promote new businesses in the information and communications field, the MPHPT has implemented a number of measures including financial support through the Telecom Venture Investment Partnership Fund, support for venturing upon new businesses based on innovative technologies through the Advanced Technical Research and Development Subsidy Fund System (telecom incubation), support for new businesses through the Information and Communications Venture Subsidy Fund System, and the establishment of the Information and Communications Venture Support Center.

## Development of Human Resources

An extremely important issue in school education today concerns the development of the qualifications and abilities of young students, who will be living in the advanced information and communications society of the future, in order that they be independently compatible with on-going digitization. In fiscal 2001, all public schools in Japan had an environment that allowed for Internet connection, and in fiscal 2002 a new curriculum has recently been added to bolster information education. In addition, since the information and communications field has been rapidly growing due to advanced technologies, securing advanced IT technicians and researchers is a must in order to maintain and strengthen international competitiveness in the existing industries by utilizing IT. Under these circumstances, the MPHPT implemented in fiscal 2001 the Information and Communications Personnel Training Support System, which is expected to help Japan become a leading resource country for IT personnel by training people who possess technical knowledge as well as skills in the rapidly advancing information and communications field.