National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt A National Strategy for the Establishment of the ICT in Developing Countries A National Strategy for the Establishment

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt

A National Strategy for A National Strategy for the Establishment of the Establishment of the ICT in Developing the ICT in Developing

CountriesCountries— the Jamaican Experience

(for UNCTAD)

Errol St. A. HewittJune, 2002


© Errol St. A Hewitt

Information Technology Vision

Rapid advances in ICT facilitates easier access to knowledge by the wider population.ICT can either be a tool for development or frustrate development.ICT confronts a range of factors including very human interests/emotions/limitations.A major factor for success is obvious & consistent leadership of the head of government



Information Technology Vision-contd.

The establishment of ICT requires maximum participation from all sectors. Priorities must be established & a workable strategy prepared & adopted..A National Strategic Plan – an essential priority/foundation



The National Strategic Planfor Information Technology

The National Strategic Plan- initiated three years ago.As far as possible to utilize inherent talent, skills & experience.Cost effective approach required. Adoption of the technology crucial to social & economic development.



Adoption of a mentoring approach– cost effective and provides proven expertise and wider spread of benefits- in kind & personnelImplement a facilitative approach Establish a Central Information Technology OfficeAllocate Budget for the Technology SectorInter-Ministerial Linkages and preparation & implementation of Sector Plans.Public Relations Programme/Public “Buy In”

Innovative Assistance-Mentoring



Leadership & the Role of Government

Structure of Leadership-Crucial.The pervasiveness of the technology in the social, economic & political, requires national implementation & leadershipImportance of ICT to development, requires the total support of the totality of government.The width & depth of the human problem, important to be managed by the head of government.



A Central Authority

A central macro planning and coordinating institutionProvides a governance structure for establishing the technology.Provides policy,technical advice and guidanceEnsures common linkages and economies.



General RequirementsSecured financing and authority to ensure independence.Focus on partnerships,Quickly build out organization with adequate staffSelect key priorities & strategiesAdopt a few “Micro” projects to accelerate credibility acceptance



Technical Advisory Panel

Participation of qualified and experienced nationals overseas..Provides an opportunity for skilled/experienced nationals overseas to participate.Provision of a second and objective opinion



Sectoral PlansSector Plans:

1. Ensures unified approach & participation.

2. The sector accepts ownership & responsibility.

3. Provides investors/funding agencies with an overview of opportunities

4. Facilitates seamless linkages



Sectoral Plans-contd.Best practices to support planning/implementation.Continuing guidelines in a dynamic sector.Sensitized political leadershipContinuing focus on the priorities.



Sectoral Plans—contd.

Specific Assistance required—• “Honing” sector plans; convincing

funding agents; molding/implementing of sector plans,etc.Establish regional/ international linkages and collaboration.Access to periodic face to face consultation with colleaguesLinkages to appropriate institutions of excellence.



Conclusion

Focus on foundations on which to build.Focus on the technology as a tool- a vehicle.Ensure broadest participation from all sectorsPlanning is essential– so is government’s support



Thank You for Your Attention and Patience.

Documents

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt A National Strategy for the Establishment of the ICT in Developing Countries A National Strategy for the Establishment