The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Digital Skills Forum was inaugurated by His Excellency the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Mohamed bin Thamir Al Kaabi. The opening ceremony included Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) at the ITU, H.E. Mr. Bonjean Rodrigue Mbanza, Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy and New Information Technologies, and H.E. Mr Ibrahem AlNasser, Deputy Minister for Future Jobs and Capabilities, Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), H.E. Mr Godfrey Kabbyanga Uganda’s Minister of State for National Guidance in addition to other ministers. Additionally, over 17 regulators from around the world, including, Dominica, Georgia, Haiti, Lithuania, Thailand, Zambia, and France were in presence.
Hosted by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), the ITU Digital Skills Forum is a key global industry event which aims to address global digital skills gaps. The hybrid event, featuring both remote sessions and onsite activities, is scheduled to continue until September 19, at the Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel.
TRA General Director, Philip Marnick underscored the significance of this event, conveying Bahrain's involvement in global efforts, stating: “Bahrain is one of 193 Member States of the ITU. We support the ITU’s ambition to ensure everyone has access to meaningful connectivity and can take part in the digital economy. Bahrain is one of the most advanced digital countries in the world. We are proud to lead the efforts of enhancing digital skills for everyone. International collaboration is key and hosting this event demonstrated the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and innovation in the digital age."
Held under the theme, "Developing Skills for Digital Transformation," the three-day forum brought together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and training practitioners. Attendees will continue to participate in discussions covering a range of topics, including digital transformation, industry perspectives on skills gaps, bridging the digital divide, national digital skills frameworks for policymaking, and announcing the Capacity Development program, a major ITU project aimed at boosting digital literacy and achieving a digitally competent society.
Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) at the ITU, applauded the forum's focus on digital skills development. He stated, "The ITU is committed to bridging the global digital skills gap and fostering a digitally inclusive world. This forum serves as a crucial platform for collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and training institutions to develop effective strategies for equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age. We commend Bahrain's leadership in spearheading this important initiative."
Source: Press Release