Abstract:

In its simple definition development is a process of change and the one responsible for such change is the one who knows – the one who posses knowledge. The knowledge is produced by research centers and universities and is transferred from where it is produced to where it is needed through education and outreach.

The transformation process (Development) of a community can only be positive if the direct beneficiaries, local people, catalysts, and the leaders of that community are actively involved in the process and also continuously in possession of information, innovative ideas and approaches that work, and skills that are needed to sustain environmentally sound and equitable development process.

The paper presents a model for Community-Based ICT Service Center for Development (Basaisa Projects www.google.com/Basaisa ) with some best practices and success stories in educating citizens, establishing small Economic Units and in supporting Community Innovations for solving local problems. The paper also presents the methodology used, constrains and challenges met in establishing three community centers in four different governorates in Egypt.

The paper proposes a new innovative health care and other public services community-based center that can make a big difference in the general welfare of the large number of inhabitants living in so many small scattered rural communities. The proposed solution, based on such unique field experiences in action research, public education, and community innovations will help solve some of the current energy, education, unemployment, waste, sanitation, and health issues facing local rural and desert communities in Egypt and elsewhere and to achieve sustainable development.

Keywords:

Community-based, ICT, Services, Development.