85m children to be introduced to internet via mobile in global mkts

Telenor Group is projecting an overwhelming majority of an estimated 500 million childrenin its emerging Asia markets, including Bangladesh, will access the Internet for the first time via mobile in the coming decade. Within the next three years alone, Telenor expects up to 85 million children will be introduced to the Internet via mobile in its global markets.
Telenor is prioritizing the online safety of children, a vulnerable demographic to cyber risks in Telenor's vast Asian footprint. An estimated 500 million children live in Telenor's Asian markets, nearly 50 million of them in Bangladesh alone, many of whom will be first accessing the Internet in the subsequent several years.
"Telenor came to Asia two decades ago - starting right here in Bangladesh - with a fundamental belief that mobile is for everyone. Now, the mass market is moving towards mobile Internet and we are determined to bring Internet for All. Mobile and data connectivity brings tremendous opportunities to people, business and societies, especially for youth who can connect, learn and avail services unimaginable only a few years back," said Sigve Brekke, Head of Telenor's Asian operations and chairman of Grameenphone.
"Increasingly widespread internet access for youth through programs like this also demands that students and children are educated on how to safely use the internet such that risks are minimized and learning opportunities maximized," said Mr. Tandre.