Youth should spearhead digital transformation, says PS

Young people must be active at all levels of the expanding tech industry in order to unlock true levels of digital transformation and advancement.

This was the view expressed by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Charley Browne during the opening ceremony of a Youth Forum, which is part of the Digital Summit and ICT Week activities, at the 3Ws Oval, Cave Hill, St Michael.

Browne, who spoke under the theme of this year’s forum, Embracing a Digital Caribbean: Opportunities for Growth and Innovation, said if the region is to fully realise its potential in the digital space, the youth must be at the forefront of the integration efforts.

“We often declare that the youth is our future – well in my view, young people will, and should be at the forefront of driving digital transformation in the Caribbean. The Caribbean, like many other regions, stand to benefit significantly from the energy, creativity, and technological aptitude that young people bring to the table,” Browne said.

“It is therefore important for governments, businesses, and educational institutions in the Caribbean, to recognise and harness the potential of young people in driving digital transformation. By providing the necessary support, resources and opportunities, the region can benefit from the talents and enthusiasm of its young people in shaping a digitally powered future.”

With the accelerated advancements in AI technology, as well as cybersecurity attacks, a collective effort must be made in the Caribbean to strengthen its workforce in the tech space, Browne added.

“Digital transformation is not easy to implement, especially for small developing states like those in the Caribbean region with limited resources. The digital divide, cyber security concerns, and the need for a digitally skilled workforce are among the issues that demand our attention,” he said.

“It is only through our collective efforts that we can overcome these challenges, and ensure  that the benefits of the digital revolution are inclusive and far reaching.”

The Permanent Secretary revealed that among the numerous programmes currently being run by the Ministry, a joint project between the Community Development Department, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and UNICEF has been running since September, with a digital skills training programme at the Sion Hill Community Centre.

He said this project is one of many aiming to improve the skills level of young people.

“The ministry’s mandate is clear; we are set on a path to encourage, and support, and facilitate our youth in driving and leading digital transformation initiatives to create sustainable opportunities for growth and economic development.”  (SB)