Brussels, 23/10/2003 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday the European Parliament adopted the recommendation for second reading from Mario Mauro (Forza Italia) on the multiannual programme (2004-2006) for the effective integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) in education and training systems in Europe (eLearning programme). The only modification wanted by MEPs was for the budget allocated to eLearning to be set at Eur 44 million. In first reading, the EP called for Eur 54 million, while the Council suggested 33 and the Commission 36 (EUROPE of 12 April, p. 12).
A press release notes that by adopting this recommendation the EP ensured that greater attention is paid to the training of teachers, in order for the action line for 'European virtual campuses' to also include the development of European teacher training programmes. With supporting figures, Mario Mauro underlined, in plenary, that close to 90% of schools have an internet connection, but less than 50% of teachers seem to use the internet in their teaching.
The eLearning programme mainly aims to fight against the digital divide, promote virtual campuses and encourage the twining of schools (see EUROPE of 3 January, p. 4).