182 different measures aimed to continue Malta’s advancement as a centre of excellence in information technology and communication were launched by the Government on Thursday. These form the basis for the ICT strategy for Malta for the period 2008 – 2010.
The Minister for Investment, Industry and Information Technology (MIIIT) Dr Austin Gatt initiated the consultation period on this strategy during a meeting of the National Information Society Advisory Council (NISCO) which will end on the 8th December 2007. After the consultation period, the new strategy will be launched.
In his speech, Minister Gatt explained that this strategy is being carried out in the light of the dramatic development in the ICT sector during the past seven years. He added that 60% of households have internet access and that over 2,000 students study in the different institutions. ICT provides jobs for around 6,000 persons and is a new pillar of the economy.
Within this context, the Government believes that by 2015 Malta will be a centre of excellence in ICT, Dr Gatt remarked.
He continued to explain that the Government’s aim is that by end 2010 the international connectivity will be improved, improvement of the next generation network, update laws related to electronic transactions; more affordable broadband internet; 1,500 technologists graduate per year and for all public services provided by the Government to be offered online. Also, the Government’s aim is that Malta sees 200 new technology companies creating 4,000 new jobs.
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