Basseterre, St. Kitts, August 19, 2009 (SKNIS): Government’s efforts to promote the practical uses of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to the population will be boosted when the Caribbean ICT Roadshow rolls into town, next week.
The event will be held from August 24 to 27 under the theme “Harnessing the Power of Innovation – the engine for ICT-enabled Caribbean development.”
During an SKNIS interview ICT Policy Advisor, Pierre Bowrin, said that the Roadshow is organized by the Caribbean Telecommunications Union in collaboration with the Internet Society and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. It is designed to foster a spirit of innovation in the development of ICT-based practical solutions and to encourage harmonization of efforts in the adoption of ICT solutions for inclusive economic and social development.
Mr. Bowrin said the highlight of the event is the 5th Annual Caribbean Internet Governance Forum at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, which will cover topics including ICT regulation and policy, network security, infrastructure strengthening and internet exchange points.
“This is very important for businesses in particular, [that] use the internet in their place of work,” he explained, highlighting the property rights and other technical issues that may result from an employee transmitting a personal email within the premises of the company. “This can be one of the issues that are discussed and so persons are invited to come and listen,” Mr. Bowrin stated.
The National ICT Center will host alternative activities as part of the Roadshow, for those not able to participate in the discussions at the Marriott. The sessions fall under the umbrella of the “ICTs for All Forum” and is designed specifically for the local population.
“We will be having a Youth Forum and this is an opportunity for young persons to come and learn various skills with regard to multimedia,” Advisor Bowrin revealed.
Participants will learn how to stream live video, make electronic presentations, create podcasts and more. Advisor Bowrin appealed to residents to seize this opportunity by attending the Roadshow, which can be accessed free of cost.
“There is a great opportunity for us to do things better. … Many persons in St. Kitts and Nevis … are eager to learn, eager to know, how we can make things more cost effective. How can we be more efficient … , how can we cutback on costs,” he stressed. “Many of these technologies, many of these forums and discussions will provide that opportunity.”
“… Everyone can benefit…. Persons in Nevis, please come down and the nationals here in St. Kitts, young and old, business people, or if you are just generally interested, please come out [to the event],” Mr. Bowrin concluded.
The full discussion with Mr. Bowrin can be heard on this week’s edition of the radio magazine programme Perspectives.
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