Role of ICT in Building Sustainable Development

Information Communication Technology (ICT) can very well accelerate and promote sustainable development. With adequate systems and reliable partner to manage these systems, ICT can make a major impact on sustainable development and the growth of many countries. Many leaders are recognizing the benefits of ICT.

In Lebanon, the knowledge networks project is an effort to introduce technological tools to women in rural Lebanon through the establishment of access points, or call centers equipped with computer and technology. A unique training system development by the Center for Research and Training of Development-Action (CRTDA) aims to ensure the sustainability of the project. Abou-Habib, executive director of the CRTDA states that “ICT is a powerful tool, used well; it can be an economic option; a vehicle for learning; a force multiplier and a way to move virtually beyond restrictions”.

In the Ugu region of South Africa, ICT has been identified as an important part government’s Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (ASGISA). They believe that ICT provides the means for economic growth and development which can also facilitate the sharing of this growth. Public Enterprise Minister Alec Erwin is pushing for affordable broadband access to be accessible to all South Africans and not only the privileged so they everyone can participate in the growth of the country. He states “This growth, if not shared by all South Africans, is meaningless”. The development of ICT sectors in the Ugu will also impact on the agriculture and tourism, which are currently the key industries for growth and development in the Ugu region.

Reference(s):

[1] Crile, Suzan. “Knowledge Networks project uses ICT to empower Women” Lebabon – Daily News. November 11, 2007
<http://dailystar.com.lb/article.asp?edition_id=1&categ_id=1&article_id=86695>

[2] Masango, David. “South Africa: ICT Key for Economic Growth, Development” BuaNews (Tshwane) October 23, 2007
<http://dailystar.com.lb/article.asp?edition_id=1&categ_id=1&article_id=86695>