“ICT plays a pivotal role (in) the transformation of Trinidad and Tobago into a knowledge-based society (because) it is the most cost-effective tool for connecting our citizens and our businesses, and is the platform from which Government hopes to diversify the economy...and improve levels of access to primary services to improve the quality of life of citizens,” Karim stated. He noted this was why two years ago, Government sought to develop a National ICT Plan, building on the connectivity drive during Phase One from 2003 to 2008.
He was speaking at the National Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Consultations at Hyatt Regency, Port-of-Spain. The consultations are being conducted by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education in conjunction with the State’s ICT implementation body, iGovTT.
In an age where communication and the transfer of information and funds takes place in seconds in the virtual world, Karim said if TT and other developing countries are to benefit fully from the ‘information economy’, they needed vision, discipline, planning and method.
The minister was referring to recommendations on ICT use in the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) “Comprehensive Guide to ICT Policy and e-Strategy Development.”
Karim told those gathered for yesterday’s consultation “kick-off session” that having a developed ICT sector would be a significant driving force for improved efficiency in the business sector. “Easier transfer and management of information makes for more efficient operations, which results in lower operating costs. A scenario that benefits merchant and consumer alike,” Karim said.
Business opportunities are one thing. The Science, Technology and Tertiary Education minister also has a vision of WiFi access for all, from public buses to churches and agricultural fields.
“I eagerly look forward to the day when our farmers can update a network-based information system about their crops’ readiness and based on the supply available or the demand for it. Farmers could also use...mobile phone apps (applications) to find out how to better develop their crops and learn new farming techniques.” Karim cited the creation of the mFisheries mobile app last year by a lecturer and students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) St Augustine campus. “This mFisheries app has been in use for just over a year by Claxton Bay fishermen. It can tell their exact location while at sea, access fishing tips and sell their catch, all from their mobile phones. arim intends to expand the programme’s use to other fishing communities across the country later this year.
The mFisheries app was jointly created by UWI’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the Caribbean Fisheries Training and Development Institution and the Distance Learning Secretariat (DLS) of the Ministry of STTE.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Sasha Harrinanan
Quelle/Source: Trinidad News, 19.04.2012
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