Project Overview
The BeLISAC project was launched to address the acute lack of ICT infrastructure among South Asian NRENs by establishing server farms in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka to support on-prem Zoom-based e-learning services. This initiative, led by BdREN and supported by TEIN*CC and NORDUnet, empowered national networks with computing resources and training programs to enhance remote learning resilience.
Targeting improved gender balance, the project recruited and trained female engineers and interns across six countries, fostered regional collaboration, and ensured equitable Zoom access via controller nodes and multimedia routers. The project culminated with the launch of a dynamic dashboard, capacity-building efforts, and international visibility through the NORDUnet conference.
Countries & Partners
Beneficiary Countries
- 🇧🇩 Bangladesh
- 🇧🇹 Bhutan
- 🇳🇵 Nepal
- 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka
- 🇱🇦 Laos
- 🇰🇠Cambodia
Key Partners
- Bangladesh Research and Education Network (BdREN)
- Lanka Education and Research Network (LEARN)
- Nepal Research and Education Network (NREN)
- Druk Research and Education Network (DrukREN)
- Laos Education and Research Network (LERNET)
- NORDUnet
Project Objectives
Main Objective
To establish computing infrastructure and enhance ICT capacity across six South Asian countries to enable sustainable, inclusive, and resilient e-learning ecosystems using Zoom and virtualization technologies.
Sub-Objectives
- Server installation in 4 countries with shared access for Laos and Cambodia
- Zoom-based e-learning platform with cloud recording
- Train 40 NREN/university engineers
- Empower 6 female engineers and 32 female interns
- Promote gender equity and cross-country collaboration
Key Outcomes
Server Infrastructure Deployed
Data centers now operational with resilient on-premises Zoom platforms across all participating countries.
Gender Inclusion Achieved
6 female engineers and 32 interns empowered through comprehensive training and mentorship programs.
Regional Collaboration
Resource sharing between 6 NRENs and international partner NORDUnet established and strengthened.
Online Education Enabled
500,000+ Zoom sessions conducted across all countries, dramatically improving access to remote learning.
Open Dashboard
Real-time monitoring portal launched to track usage metrics including duration, classes, and participants.
Capacity Building
Hands-on training delivered to 40 engineers in virtualization and Zoom platform management.
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 4
Quality Education - Enhancing access to digital learning across South Asian countries
SDG 5
Gender Equality - Empowering female engineers and promoting gender balance in ICT
SDG 9
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - Building robust ICT infrastructure for education
SDG 17
Partnerships for the Goals - Fostering international collaboration and knowledge sharing