Computer Society of South Africa (CSSA) has welcomed the President Jacob Zuma's State of the Nation Address for its focus on unemployment, poverty and inequality, and the implementation of major improvements to the country's infrastructure.
Adrian Schofield, CSSA President, commented that while it was heartening that the government was looking for ways to kick-start the economy and create jobs, it was disappointing that there was no reference to how the ICT sector could contribute.
“We are concerned that the government does not recognise the critical need for access to affordable technology at all levels in society,” said Schofield, pointing out that more opportunities for economic activity will flow from education and training in technology skills than from the traditionally labour-intensive industries.
“Information and communications technologies are the enablers, the tools that are needed to make every other sector productive and competitive, that open doors to budding entrepreneurs and fuel the growth of small enterprises. Why was the cost of and access to broadband not addressed by the State President, when he announced other moves to cut the cost of doing business?” asked Schofield.
Schofield concluded by pledging the CSSA's commitment to working with the industry and with government on initiatives to ensure that ICTs are recognised for their crucial role in South Africa's future success.
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