The computer, the new supreme, ultimate, approved ambition of the new generation and even, the repeatedly advertised symbol of progress, has invaded our lives, sweeping us in its wake onto the path of the promising virtual era. It has emerged from the world of the fantastic to become an indispensable tool in our society.

Requiring new skills, IT has brought about a major revolution in the world and Mauritius is striving hard to keep pace. The intelligent chip has changed the work culture and the perspective on education. Special efforts have been made to ?connect? the remotest corner of the island and to make computer literacy accessible to most. IT has boosted productivity, bringing along a certain margin of accuracy ? thus allowing the development of other industries.

No sector has remained insensitive to this catalyst of development ? from the arts to the most complex forms of technology, all have benefited from this new ?intelligence?. At times a provocative challenge to the human brain, the computer is also a highly prized source of entertainment.

The computer has revolutionised communications. We currently talk of e-government, e-commerce, e-learning, etc? We are just a ?click? away from the rest of the world. If our small screen has opened the window on the richness of knowledge and information, it has also brought people and communities closer. The internet has allowed group discussions, new levels of trade and data exchange, new relationships, even virtual friendship ?

Dreams of extensive travels are fulfilled through the navigating cursor. Surfing has led curious minds along waves of resourceful materials. The new generation is groggily clinging to this new adventure. Computer Studies has become the acclaimed subject. All children can at least vouch they have seen a computer at school even if, in many cases, access to it remains theoretical?But the country is hopeful that all fingertips will eventually kiss the keyboard.

The downside of the computer cannot be overlooked in our democratic perspective. This new interactive wonder is indiscriminate in its connections. Together with enabling easy access to pornographic sites, the internet has become a blossoming platform for abuse of various kinds. Hacking or savage plagiarism are inevitable side incidents. Hence the need for adequate and competent parameters to ensure safe and progressive management. Besides these extreme factors, the very expense related to the computer, whether to acquire the magic box or to be qualified in that field, is exorbitant.

The country still has a long way to go to achieve its dream of being a cyber-island. Well-calculated investments both in material and qualified resources will help the country move confidently into the virtual world.

Veena DABYDOYAL