Basic literacy is of crucial importance for development and, as such, is one of the development imperatives adopted by the UN Millennium Summit. However, for the purposes of adopting a strategy that deploys ICT as an enabler, it is not an absolute requirement that a country begin with a high literacy rate. In order to deploy ICT for development, it is important for countries to develop a critical mass of knowledge workers, technology users, and motivated entrepreneurs.
Knowledge Workers. Countries should focus on educating and retaining a core of professionals with the technical capabilities to provide and maintain ICT infrastructure and related ICT services, and to adapt new technologies for local requirements. Both tertiary education and corporate training are important components of ICT skill development.50 Progress in these areas requires an increase in the number of tertiary institutions, the promotion of relevant educational curricula, and the creation of new educational facilities with specific emphasis on ICT skill development. Skill development and retraining of the existing workforce is key. Policies encouraging businesses to allocate resources to employee development and training, as is happening in South Africa, can be an important mechanism for achieving this outcome.
Intermediaries and Technology Users. Also important for achieving development goals and sustainable growth are the institutions to link the technology to those who would benefit from its use. A number of different actors, including the national and global private sector,51 as well as community networks (particularly for the development of ICT intermediaries and users) have been involved in skill development and the creation of ICT awareness. However, it is not just the creation of skills that is important, but also the development of incentives52 to reduce “brain drain.”53 In South Africa, for instance, the 15-20 percent per annum exodus of skilled technical workers has hindered ICT deployment and the growth of the ICT sector. This process may be reversed if proper measures are taken by policymakers to improve market and social conditions through a development dynamic.
Motivated Entrepreneurs. The development dynamic is also accelerated by the creation of a critical mass of motivated entrepreneurs, people with business expertise to leverage new opportunities.54 This is a function not just of entrepreneurial skills and financing, but also of a supportive policy environment and opportunities for development. In South Africa, for example, the transition to universal democracy in 1994 has led to a proactive approach by the government to the development of local entrepreneurs and managers. Its Black Economic Empowerment program creates incentives for black businesses. Currently, the number of black entrepreneurs and managers is growing, although beginning from a very low base.
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