The World Bank has highlighted its ICT priorities in relation to the economic and social future of the developing countries.
Its aim is to see a reduction in the poverty rate by increasing the income, from the very poorest.
Currently 12% of the global population earns less than $1.25 per day. Their aim is to reduce that to 3% by 2030.
Their ICT priorities are as follows:
· Deliver affordable broadband for all. Currently the poorest people in most developing countries would have to pay 40% – and in many cases more than 100% – of their income if they want to be connected. They also recognise that broadband on its own will not do the job. Government leadership is essential; systems need to be in place for education and healthcare before they can use broadband in any effective way. They see the development of ICT infrastructure as an essential part of local government policy making.
· Transformation – ICT can be a driver of this. Again education is more than ready for such a transformation; without ICT the education system will only fall further behind, including the gender gap. All aspects are due for change: administration, delivery of education, teaching quality and content
· Digital ID. This is essential for the delivery of government services across the country, ensuring privacy and security, financial transactions, etc. Interestingly, privacy was seen as the most important element by far in getting women and girls to use the ICT tools.