GLASGOW’S digital strategy – which has seen thousands of iPads handed out to schools – will continue to “tackle the digital divide” as Covid-19 increases reliance on technology.

Since its launch in November 2018, there has been a “major” connectivity upgrade in primary and secondary schools, with over 25,000 devices delivered to children.

More than 3600 Wi-Fi hotspots have been installed in schools and Apple TV has been fitted in classrooms.

Glasgow Life has coordinated the delivery of 780 devices to vulnerable people in the city as part of a Scottish Government programme.

The strategy has faced challenges due to the pandemic, including a “greater need” to support those excluded digitally, as well as struggling small businesses. Parts needed to be de-prioritised and global supply chains have been impacted.

In response to Covid-19, the council required a “rapid adoption” of Microsoft Teams to enable staff to work remotely.

It has also used 3D printing for face visors for care staff and set up a customer relationship management system to support the Shielding operation.

An update on the strategy will be presented to councillors at a meeting on Thursday.

Councillor Angus Millar, chair of the Digital Glasgow Board, said: “We have made great progress in delivering on our strategy, with action and investment utilising digital technology to improve lives and services and provide opportunities for people and businesses.

"The importance of the digital agenda has been as clear as ever during the pandemic, with more Glaswegians relying on technology to work and connect, and our Digital Glasgow Strategy has enabled the city to provide a swift response to the needs of care workers and people being shielded.

"The next three years of the strategy will see further progress as we work to tackle the digital divide, promote greater connectivity and support improved and more accessible public services.”

A council report on the strategy states there now needs to be a focus on digital investment during recovery from the pandemic, support to develop Glasgow’s tech cluster and continued efforts to tackle digital exclusion.

It has previously involved research from Skills Development Scotland into digital skills gaps in the city and a digital inclusion programme has targeted Universal Credit applicants, helping with access to benefits.

An SQA accredited digital inclusion and skills programme is being delivered by Glasgow Life in collaboration with Glasgow Clyde College and Glasgow Kelvin College.

A new MyGlasgow service provides online forms for stray dogs, bus shelters, noise, anti-social behaviour and food safety and NHS Near Me conferencing platform is available for social work services, such as alcohol addictions, mental health and learning disabilities.