ICT Week Set to Drive Technological Advancement in the Caribbean
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), in partnership with the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) of St. Kitts and Nevis will host CTU ICT Week 2024 under the theme “Bridging Technologies for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future.”
Organizers say the weeklong event from September 30th to October 5th, 2024 is set to be a landmark for the Caribbean, promising to catalyze the region’s technological development and will gather policymakers, government officials, industry leaders, technology experts, and other stakeholders from across the Caribbean and beyond to discuss and explore digital transformation, sustainability, and inclusion through technology.
The conference will include in-depth discussions on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation and present opportunities a unique opportunity to embrace cutting-edge technology and strategies that can enhance connectivity, drive economic resilience, and foster regional social inclusion.
Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada and Chair of CARICOM; Konris Maynard, Minister of ICT for St. Kitts & Nevis; Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); and Rodney Taylor, Secretary-General of the CTU are among the list of presenters.
Maynard, in emphasizing the strategic importance of ICT in enhancing the quality of life and driving economic growth in St. Kitts and Nevis said “the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has been focused on using ICT to drive economic growth, improve public services, and enhance the overall quality of life for its citizens.”
He urged widespread participation at the conference, adding that their “presence and contributions are vital to fostering a sustainable and inclusive future through technology.”
Rodney Taylor, Secretary-General of the CTU, highlighted the significance of hosting the event in St. Kitts and Nevis. “We are honoured to host the CTU ICT Week 2024 in St. Kitts and Nevis, a nation that embodies the spirit of leading innovative firsts in pioneering movements. This gathering represents a significant milestone in our collective journey towards advancing ICT development and fostering a collaborative environment for technological progress in the Caribbean,” he said.
Permanent Secretary Cheryleann Pemberton said “the ICT week of activities promises to be an extraordinary gathering, showcasing the latest advancements and opportunities in the field of ICT.”
A special highlight will be a two-day hackathon, engaging the youth of St. Kitts and Nevis in software development, fostering innovation, and equipping them with skills for the future.
Participants will have the opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships that could lead to innovative projects and regional support. Exhibitions and demonstrations will showcase the latest technological advancements tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the Caribbean region. Additionally, digital transformation initiatives such as “Digital St. Kitts” and “Digital Nevis” will be discussed, offering a glimpse into the future of digital governance in the Federation.
