Sisi: IT key element in supporting development plans

CAIRO, Nov 25 (MENA) - President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi said the Communication and Information Technology sector has become a key element in supporting the state's development plans and a locomotive of building a competitive and diverse economy that depends on innovation and knowledge.

In an address at the inauguration ceremony of the Cairo ICT 2018 exhibition, the president said Egypt has given great attention to that sector with the aim of developing and updating the communication infrastructure, establishing smart cities and enabling all citizens to use digital services.

Egypt is keen on spreading awareness of the importance of digitization which would help reach a breakthrough across Egypt and provide an environment that encourages youth to hone their skills and to enhance the industry and design of electronics, the president said.

The president pointed out to distinguished efforts and creative ideas reflected in the ongoing projects implemented through cooperation and coordination among the various ministries and bodies concerned. This enhances confidence in our steps toward establishing a tech-savvy community where all people get a fair share in the development process, he said.

The president expressed pride in seeing initiatives put into effect, namely integrated electronic labs at technological zones, saying this asserts efforts exerted by the state to install technology in all governorates and to establish a national industry for electronics, he said.

The president also pointed out to the national IT academy for the disabled which will be opened and operated soon in conformity with the latest quality standards and training. The academy crowns the state's efforts to include people with special needs, help them with communication and IT and enable them to play an active role in the community.

The president cited the UN Africa Technology Innovation Lab which is being equipped with the latest technology, saying it will help develop the skills and potentials of researchers and workers in the various technology fields all over Africa.

President Sisi voiced confidence in the abilities of the Egyptians to proceed with efforts to build the future, adding that the state strategy to establish an integrated system seeks to provide the best opportunities of education and development.

The president wished the participants a successful conference and exhibition.