Latest news with #WorldTelecommunicationandInformationSocietyDay
Broadcast Pro
19-05-2025
- Broadcast Pro
Qatar launches national initiative to mark ITU's 160th anniversary
The initiative features a diverse sequence of programmes developed in collaboration with local organisations and international partners. To commemorate the 160th anniversary of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Qatars Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at fostering digital inclusion and community engagement. Unveiled on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, the initiative aligns with the CRA Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030, highlighting the countrys long-standing partnership with the ITU and its commitment to inclusive digital advancement. Running under the theme Everyone Connected, Everyone Engaged, the initiative underscores Qatars support for global digital transformation by promoting the use of telecommunications and information technology for social benefit. It seeks to translate this vision into tangible outcomes that enhance connectivity and digital literacy across the country. Commenting on the programme, Engineer Ahmad Abdulla Al-Muslemani, President of CRA and Chair-Designate of the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026, said: 'As we join the global community in marking the ITUs 160th anniversary, Qatar reaffirms its dedication to a digitally empowered and inclusive future. This programme is a testament to our enduring relationship with the Union and our shared mission to effectively regulate telecommunications and information technology, improve quality of life and transform digital opportunities into tangible achievements for all members of society.' The initiative features a diverse sequence of programmes developed in collaboration with local organisations and international partners. It begins an awareness workshop aimed at enhancing digital safety for the elderly, in cooperation with Ehsan Centre for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly, to provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and independently engage with the digital world. Manal Ahmed AlMannai, CEO of Ehsan, added: 'Our partnership with the Communications Regulatory Authority enables us to extend our long-standing mission into the digital world, and empower the elderly to use technology safely and confidently, ensuring that all generations benefit from Qatars digital transformation.' The initiative also includes a range of diverse programs developed in collaboration with several local organisations, aimed at engaging all segments of society, empowering people with disabilities, supporting the elderly, and inspiring youth pursuing careers in ICT. These efforts reflect Qatar's steadfast dedication to achieving digital inclusion and enhancing its active presence both regionally and internationally in the journey toward a knowledge-based digital economy that ensures equal opportunities for access and progress for all.
Qatar Tribune
18-05-2025
- Qatar Tribune
CRA launches national initiative to celebrate 160 years of Int'l Telecommunication Union
Tribune News Network Doha In celebration of the 160th anniversary of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has launched a national initiative featuring a variety of community-focused programmes. The programme kicked off on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day and reflects Qatar's longstanding collaboration with the ITU and its commitment to inclusive digital advancement in line with the CRA Strategy and the Qatar National Vision 2030. The national initiative, running under the unifying slogan 'Everyone Connected, Everyone Engaged', affirms Qatar's commitment to supporting global efforts in digital transformation. It focuses on achieving tangible benefits within the country by promoting the use of telecommunications and information technology, contributing to the ITU's vision of connecting the world through modern and sustainable digital means. Commenting on programme, Engineer Ahmad Abdulla Al-Muslemani, president of CRA and chair-designate of the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026, said: 'As we join the global community in marking the ITU's 160th anniversary, Qatar reaffirms its dedication to a digitally empowered and inclusive future. This programme is a testament to our enduring relationship with the Union and our shared mission to effectively regulate telecommunications and information technology, improve quality of life and transform digital opportunities into tangible achievements for all members of society.' The initiative features a diverse sequence of programmes developed in collaboration with local organisations and international partners. It begins an awareness workshop aimed at enhancing digital safety for the elderly, in cooperation with Ehsan – Centre for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly, to provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and independently engage with the digital world. Manal Ahmed Al Mannai, CEO of Ehsan, emphasized the value of digital inclusion, stating: 'Our partnership with the Communications Regulatory Authority enables us to extend our long-standing mission into the digital world, and empower the elderly to use technology safely and confidently, ensuring that all generations benefit from Qatar's digital transformation ' The initiative also includes a range of diverse programmes developed in collaboration with several local organizations, aimed at engaging all segments of society, empowering people with disabilities, supporting the elderly, and inspiring youth pursuing careers in ICT. These efforts reflect Qatar's steadfast dedication to achieving digital inclusion and enhancing its active presence both regionally and internationally in the journey toward a knowledge-based digital economy that ensures equal opportunities for access and progress for all.
Gulf Insider
18-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Stands Out as Largest Digital Economy in MENA With a Value of Over SR495 Billion
Saudi Arabia stood out as the largest digital economy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), having made significant strides in artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, digital government, and human capital development, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia's digital economy is valued at over SR495 billion, representing 15 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP). This was revealed in a report published on the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, observed annually on May 17. The telecommunications and information technology market registered record growth of more than SR180 billion in 2024, driven by increased private sector investment and heightened innovation, further reinforcing the Kingdom's position as the largest technology market in the Middle East. These achievements have formed the groundwork for a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and investment in people and technology, solidifying the Kingdom's position as a regional and global digital power. This reflects a significant shift in the national economic landscape and highlights the Kingdom's success in accelerating income diversification through a smart economy. In its pursuit of transitioning to the smart era, the Kingdom has invested over SR55 billion in AI technologies and data centers, establishing itself as a regional hub for future industries. By empowering digital human capabilities, Saudi Arabia has boosted its regional prominence as a major hub for digital talent, generating over 381,000 quality jobs in the technology sector. In the field of digital governance, Saudi Arabia has made exceptional progress in United Nations indicators, ranking sixth globally in the E-Government Development Index. It also ranked fourth globally in the Digital Services Index, second among G20 countries, and first in the region. In sub-indicators, the Kingdom ranked first globally in digital skills and open digital government, and seventh worldwide in the E-Participation Index.
Saudi Gazette
18-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia stands out as largest digital economy in MENA with a value of over SR495 billion
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Arabia stood out as the largest digital economy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), having made significant strides in artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, digital government, and human capital development, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia's digital economy is valued at over SR495 billion, representing 15 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP). This was revealed in a report published on the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, observed annually on May 17. The telecommunications and information technology market registered record growth of more than SR180 billion in 2024, driven by increased private sector investment and heightened innovation, further reinforcing the Kingdom's position as the largest technology market in the Middle East. These achievements have formed the groundwork for a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and investment in people and technology, solidifying the Kingdom's position as a regional and global digital power. This reflects a significant shift in the national economic landscape and highlights the Kingdom's success in accelerating income diversification through a smart economy. In its pursuit of transitioning to the smart era, the Kingdom has invested over SR55 billion in AI technologies and data centers, establishing itself as a regional hub for future industries. By empowering digital human capabilities, Saudi Arabia has boosted its regional prominence as a major hub for digital talent, generating over 381,000 quality jobs in the technology sector. In the field of digital governance, Saudi Arabia has made exceptional progress in United Nations indicators, ranking sixth globally in the E-Government Development Index. It also ranked fourth globally in the Digital Services Index, second among G20 countries, and first in the region. In sub-indicators, the Kingdom ranked first globally in digital skills and open digital government, and seventh worldwide in the E-Participation Index.
Business Recorder
18-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
World celebrates WTISD 2025 under theme ‘Gender equality in digital transformation'
ISLAMABAD: As the world celebrates World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2025 under the theme 'Gender equality in digital transformation,' Zong reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every Pakistani woman has equal access to the benefits of digital technology. To bridge the digital divide, Zong continues to expand its 4G network to underserved areas while offering affordable data packages, tackling access and affordability, particularly for women in rural regions. In the rapidly evolving digital world, equitable access to connectivity is not only a matter of convenience, it is a key driver of inclusion and sustainable development. However, barriers to digital access continue to disproportionately affect women and girls globally, restricting their participation in the digital economy and limiting their opportunities for growth. This year's WTISD also marks the 160th anniversary of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which continues to highlight the transformative role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in shaping a better and more connected world. Despite progress, around 2.6 billion people remain offline, with women making up the majority. Challenges such as affordability, lack of skills, and unsafe digital environments must be tackled collaboratively to achieve inclusive digital transformation. In 2024 alone, over 8 million women in Pakistan came online, and the gender gap in mobile internet usage decreased from 38% to 25%, reflecting collective progress by regulators, telecom providers, and civil society. Pakistan now leads South Asia in digital inclusion, with 45% of women connected; surpassing India and Bangladesh. Despite this progress, 55% of women remain offline, with 40% citing barriers such as handset affordability, data costs, literacy gaps, and lack of digital skills. Aligned with its vision to become Pakistan's leading information services and technology innovation company Zong has implemented a series of strategic programs to address digital inequality and create lasting impact through innovation, education, and partnerships. These initiatives focus on access to connectivity, digital skills development, financial platforms, and fostering a safe and inclusive digital ecosystem for women. Zong has partnered with government bodies, non-profits, and digital learning platforms to launch targeted literacy programs that equip women with essential ICT skills, from basic internet usage to e-commerce and online safety. It has also established digital learning centers and telecenters that provide safe spaces for women to build skills and confidence, extending learning beyond traditional classrooms and fostering career readiness. The Zong Digital Scholars Programme, developed with Knowledge Platform, is a strategic initiative to prepare young women in CPEC corridor communities for the digital future through interactive classrooms and AI-enhanced learning. Building on this foundation, Zong is launching specialized digital literacy programs for 5,000 young women aged 18-24, equipping them with career-ready skills in an increasingly digital economy. Zong is driving inclusive growth by ensuring technology enables and uplifts all, especially marginalized groups. By embedding inclusion into every layer of its strategy, Zong is not only advancing digital gender equality but also paving the way for a more connected, just, and sustainable Pakistan. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
