Poverty Eradication and the Role of ICTsDilemma’s of Developing NationsCan ICTs help?There is moreSome challengesToDo ListWho is ResponsibleConclusionPoverty Eradication and the Role of ICTsMedia, Education and the MarketplaceDilemma’s of Developing Nations• Healthcare– HIV/AIDS, Malaria, TB etc.• Education– Poor/limited resources• Gender Equality– Women remain underrepresented• Governments– Corrupt and not representativeCan ICTs help?• ICTs can play crucial roles in– Governance• Access to knowledge creates political empowerment– Productivity• Cost effective and scalable solutions– Information Flow• Dissemination of content– Technology transfer• Collaboration between developed and developing nationsThere is more• Capacity building in– Environmental solutions: cleaner water, energy conservation etc.– Wildlife conservation and research– Policy and decision making– Other low cost alternativesSome challenges• Poor infrastructure• Restrictive laws• Science and engineering curriculums• No expertise• No incentives for private sector• Foreign investments limitedToDo List• Educate governments• Encourage innovation• Create technology platforms that have wide applications• Leverage existing technologies: mobile networks • Include developing nations in ICT initiatives• Collaboration with developed worldWho is Responsible• United Nations• Governments• Private Sector and Multinational CorporationsConclusion• We are very far away from poverty eradication but with a few critical steps, ICTs can provide sustainable and scalable solutions. Today, ICT cuts across all fields of life and governance. Therefore it is imperative to address the digital divide using affordable and appropriate
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