…To Enhance ICT Hardware, Software Production

Federal Government says it will deploy Information Communication Technology (ICT), infrastructure in building indigenous capacity and for the manufacture of ICT hardware, software and accessories
The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonaya Onu,  Tuesday in Abuja, made this known at the 4th International Workshop on Application of ICT in Education, Healthcare and Agriculture.
According to him, achieving the feat will strengthen the role of Science, Technology and Innovation in all sectors of the economy.
“It is also expected that this will help in the creation of an ICT Databank that will support our new STI Road Map 2017 to 2020.
“It is therefore important that, as you deliberate on the theme of this conference, you reflected on how ICT can improve teaching and learning techniques in enhancing access to ICT knowledge, especially in the rural areas.
“In addition, serious thought should be given to how cutting edge technology of telemedicine can assist in promoting  access to reliable and affordable health care, since health is wealth”, he said.
The minister said that adequate attention ought to be paid to know how accurate ICT based technical information could be sourced to enhance improved agricultural practices anchored on accurate weather forecasts.
Onu stressed the effort would enable important stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to make informed decisions that would help improve yield and manpower productivity to strengthen contribution of agriculture toward national development.
Mrs Belema Wakama, FMST Permanent Secretary said that the workshop was designed to provide a veritable platform for knowledge sharing among member countries on the role of ICT in the sectors of education, healthcare and agriculture.
“Also in their impacts on the social-economic development of a nation”, she added.
According to her, STI is the driving forces behind citizen engagements, wealth and governments.
“ICT is currently reshaping much aspect of the world economies, societies and governments.
“Many countries, public and private entities are harnessing the transformative power of ICT to provide more efficient services and expedite economic growth”, she said.