National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt A National Strategy for the Establishment of the ICT in Developing Countries A National Strategy for the Establishment of the ICT in Developing Countries — the Jamaican Experience (for UNCTAD) Errol St. A. Hewitt June, 2002

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© 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

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt 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

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt The National Strategic Plan for 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.

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt Adoption of a mentoring approach– cost effective and provides proven expertise and wider spread of benefits- in kind & personnel Implement a facilitative approach Establish a Central Information Technology Office Allocate Budget for the Technology Sector Inter-Ministerial Linkages and preparation & implementation of Sector Plans. Public Relations Programme/Public “Buy In” Innovative Assistance- Mentoring

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt Leadership & the Role of Government Structure of Leadership-Crucial. The pervasiveness of the technology in the social, economic & political, requires national implementation & leadership Importance 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.

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt A Central Authority A central macro planning and coordinating institution Provides a governance structure for establishing the technology. Provides policy,technical advice and guidance Ensures common linkages and economies.

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt General Requirements Secured financing and authority to ensure independence. Focus on partnerships, Quickly build out organization with adequate staff Select key priorities & strategies Adopt a few “Micro” projects to accelerate credibility acceptance

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt 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

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt Sectoral Plans Sector 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

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt Sectoral Plans-contd. Best practices to support planning/implementation. Continuing guidelines in a dynamic sector. Sensitized political leadership Continuing focus on the priorities.

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt 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 colleagues Linkages to appropriate institutions of excellence.

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt Conclusion Focus on foundations on which to build. Focus on the technology as a tool- a vehicle. Ensure broadest participation from all sectors Planning is essential– so is government’s support

National Strategy for IT Errol Hewitt© Errol St. A Hewitt Thank You for Your Attention and Patience.